Associate Safety Professional Practice Exam

Which of the following is incorrect regarding OSHA regulations on cadmium exposure?

1. Biological monitoring is required for exposures above the PEL

2. OSHA's standard requires testing for cadmium in blood samples

3. Exceeding PEL mandates proper health surveillance

4. Hippuric acid testing may be used to monitor cadmium exposure

The correct answer is: OSHA's standard requires testing for cadmium in blood samples

The assertion that OSHA's standard requires testing for cadmium in blood samples is not accurate. While biological monitoring is indeed a significant component of OSHA regulations concerning hazardous substances, the specific methods used for biological monitoring of cadmium exposure do not typically include blood tests as mandated. Instead, OSHA often emphasizes urine testing for cadmium, which reflects body burden and exposure more accurately than blood tests. In contrast, the other options reflect accurate components of OSHA regulations regarding cadmium. Biological monitoring is indeed required for workers whose exposure to cadmium exceeds the permissible exposure limit (PEL), which is designed to help assess the extent of exposure and the potential health risks associated with it. Additionally, exceeding the PEL does mandate proper health surveillance to monitor workers' health and intervene when necessary. Moreover, while not directly linked to cadmium monitoring, hippuric acid testing is associated with toluene exposure, which can lead to confusion. However, cadmium is typically monitored through other biological means, further reinforcing why blood testing is not a requirement under OSHA regulations for cadmium.