Occupational hygiene measurement strategy in the pharmaceutical industry

In an industry which handles materials which are biologically active it is necessary to limit the exposure of workers engaged in both research and production to these materials. Part of the control procedure is to be able to demonstrate that whatever system is put in place is effective and remains so. This may require a programme of environmental monitoring. To be effective any monitoring programme must be properly planned and executed. This paper sets out the philosophy and practice of one multinational pharmaceutical company which may stimulate debate in the industry.