SIST ISO 18158:2018

Workplace air - Terminology

ISO 18158:2016 specifies terms and definitions that are related to the assessment of workplace exposure (see 2.1.5.1) to chemical and biological agents (see 2.1.1.1). These are either general terms or are specific to physical and chemical processes of air sampling, the analytical method (see 2.3.3), or method performance.
The terms included are those that have been identified as being fundamental because their definition is necessary to avoid ambiguity and ensure consistency of use.
ISO 18158:2016 is applicable to all International Standards, ISO Technical Reports, ISO Technical Specifications, and ISO Guides related to workplace atmospheres.

Qualité de l'air - Terminologie

Zrak na delovnem mestu - Terminologija

Ta mednarodni standard določa pogoje in definicije, ki so povezane z ocenjevanjem izpostavljenosti (glej 2.1.5.1) kemičnim in biološkim dejavnikom (glej 2.1.1.1) na delovnem mestu. To so splošni pogoji ali posebni pogoji pri določenih fizičnih in kemičnih procesih vzorčenja zraka, analitični metodi (glej 2.3.3) ali delovanju metode.
Vključeni pogoji so tisti, ki so bili prepoznani kot ključni, ker je njihova definicija potrebna pri izogibanju dvoumnostim in zagotavljanju doslednosti uporabe.
Ta mednarodni standard se uporablja pri vseh mednarodnih standardih, tehničnih poročilih ISO, tehničnih specifikacijah ISO in vodnikih ISO, ki obravnavajo atmosfere na delovnih mestih.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Public Enquiry End Date: 09-Oct-2017
• Publication Date: 13-Feb-2018
• ICS: 01.020 - Terminology (principles and coordination)
• ICS: 01.040.13 - Environment. Health protection. Safety (Vocabularies)
• ICS: 13.040.30 - Workplace atmospheres
• Technical Committee: KAZ - Air quality
• Current Stage: 6060 - National Implementation/Publication (Adopted Project)
• Start Date: 05-Oct-2017
• Due Date: 10-Dec-2017
• Completion Date: 14-Feb-2018
• Ref Project: ISO 18158:2016 - Workplace air - Terminology

Overview

ISO 18158:2016 - "Workplace air - Terminology" standardizes the vocabulary used for assessing workplace exposure to chemical and biological agents. It defines general terms and terms specific to the physical/chemical processes of air sampling, the analytical method, and method performance. The purpose is to remove ambiguity and ensure consistent use of terms across International Standards, technical reports, specifications and guides related to workplace atmospheres.

Keywords: ISO 18158:2016, workplace air terminology, exposure assessment, air sampling, aerosols, occupational exposure.

Key Topics

• Agents and pollutants: Definitions for chemical agents and biological agents, and differentiation from organic dusts.
• Aerosols and particles: Terms such as aerosol, bioaerosol, nanoaerosol, nanoparticle, ultrafine particle, agglomerate and aggregate; and particle aerodynamic diameter.
• Health‑related fractions and sampling conventions: Inhalable, extrathoracic, thoracic and respirable fractions and corresponding sampling conventions (see linkage to ISO 7708).
• Exposure assessment: Clear definitions for exposure by inhalation, dermal exposure, time‑weighted average (TWA) concentration, and occupational exposure limit value (OELV).
• Sampling and analytical method terminology: Workplace (air) sample, sampler, sampling procedures, and terms related to analytical methods and method performance.
• Method performance & statistics: Definitions related to efficiency, uncertainty and statistical terms needed for method validation and reporting.

Applications

ISO 18158:2016 is a reference vocabulary that supports consistent communication and interpretation in:

• Industrial hygiene and occupational health practice (exposure monitoring, control effectiveness).
• Analytical and testing laboratories reporting workplace air results.
• Standards writers and regulators drafting exposure limits, monitoring protocols and compliance documents.
• Procurement and specification of air sampling equipment and laboratory methods.
• Training materials and technical documentation to reduce ambiguity in reporting and legal contexts.

Using ISO 18158 helps ensure that measurements (e.g., inhalable vs respirable fractions), sampling conventions, and method performance terms are interpreted and applied consistently - improving data comparability and regulatory clarity.

Related Standards

• ISO 7708 - health‑related particle size fractions (inhalable, thoracic, respirable).
• ISO/TR 27628 and ISO/TS 80004‑4 - nanoaerosol and nanoparticle terminology.
• ISO 21438‑1 and EN 1540 - referenced sources for specific definitions.

For practitioners and organizations involved in workplace atmosphere monitoring, ISO 18158:2016 is an essential terminology reference to harmonize exposure assessment language and support reliable occupational air quality programs.

Standards Content (Sample)

INTERNATIONAL ISO
STANDARD 18158
First edition
2016-03-01
Workplace air — Terminology
Qualité de l’air — Terminologie
Reference number
©
ISO 2016
© ISO 2016, Published in Switzerland
All rights reserved. Unless otherwise specified, no part of this publication may be reproduced or utilized otherwise in any form
or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, or posting on the internet or an intranet, without prior
written permission. Permission can be requested from either ISO at the address below or ISO’s member body in the country of
the requester.
ISO copyright office
Ch. de Blandonnet 8 • CP 401
CH-1214 Vernier, Geneva, Switzerland
Tel. [phone]
Fax [phone]
[e-mail]
www.iso.org
ii © ISO 2016 – All rights reserved

Contents Page
Foreword .iv
Introduction .v
1 Scope . 1
2 Terms and definitions . 1
2.1 General terms . 1
2.1.1 Agents . 1
2.1.2 Air pollutants . 1
2.1.3 Health-related fractions and conventions . 2
2.1.4 Aerosols . 3
2.1.5 Exposure assessment . 5
2.1.6 Other terms . 6
2.2 Terms related to the physical and chemical processes of workplace (air) sampling . 6
2.2.1 Workplace (air) sample. 6
2.2.2 Workplace (air) sampler . 7
2.2.3 Workplace (air) sampling .10
2.3 Terms related to the analytical method .12
2.4 Terms related to method performance .14
2.4.1 Efficiency .14
2.4.2 Uncertainty .14
2.4.3 General statistical terms .17
2.4.4 Other statistical terms . .19
Annex A (informative) Alphabetical index of terms defined .20
Annex B (informative) Additional terms .24
Bibliography .28
Foreword
ISO (the International Organization for Standardization) is a worldwide federation of national standards
bodies (ISO member bodies). The work of preparing International Standards is normally carried out
through ISO technical committees. Each member body interested in a subject for which a technical
committee has been established has the right to be represented on that committee. International
organizations, governmental and non-governmental, in liaison with ISO, also take part in the work.
ISO collaborates closely with the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) on all matters of
electrotechnical standardization.
The procedures used to develop this document and those intended for its further maintenance are
described in the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 1. In particular the different approval criteria needed for the
different types of ISO documents should be noted. This document was drafted in accordance with the
editorial rules of the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2 (see www.iso.org/directives).
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of
patent rights. ISO shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights. Details of
any patent rights identified during the development of the document will be in the Introduction and/or
on the ISO list of patent declarations received (see www.iso.org/patents).
Any trade name used in this document is information given for the convenience of users and does not
constitute an endorsement.
For an explanation on the meaning of ISO specific terms and expressions related to conformity
assessment, as well as information about ISO’s adherence to the WTO principles in the Technical
Barriers to Trade (TBT) see the following URL: Foreword - Supplementary information
The committee responsible for this document is ISO/TC 146, Air quality, Subcommittee SC 2, Workplace
atmospheres.
iv © ISO 2016 – All rights reserved

Introduction
The health of workers in many industries is at risk through exposure by inhalation of chemical and
biological agents. Industrial hygienists and other public health professionals need to determine the
effectiveness of measures taken to control workers’ exposure and this is generally achieved by making
workplace air measurements.
Many terms that are commonly used in relation to workplace air measurements and exposure
assessments are defined within individual standards or technical documents and are often defined
differently from one standard or document to the next. This creates ambiguities and inconsistencies
in the use of such terms. This International Standard was developed to ensure that commonly used
terms have agreed-upon definitions and to eliminate ambiguities and inconsistencies in their usage. It
will be of benefit to agencies concerned with health and safety at work, industrial hygienists and other
public health professionals, analytical laboratories, industrial users of metals and metalloids and their
workers.
INTERNATIONAL STANDARD ISO 18158:2016(E)
Workplace air — Terminology
1 Scope
This International Standard specifies terms and definitions that are related to the assessment of
workplace exposure (see 2.1.5.1) to chemical and biological agents (see 2.1.1.1). These are either
general terms or are specific to physical and chemical processes of air sampling, the analytical method
(see 2.3.3), or method performance.
The terms included are those that have been identified as being fundamental because their definition is
necessary to avoid ambiguity and ensure consistency of use.
This International Standard is applicable to all International Standards, ISO Technical Reports, ISO
Technical Specifications, and ISO Guides related to workplace atmospheres.
2 Terms and definitions
2.1 General terms
2.1.1 Agents
2.1.1.1
biological agent
one of a number of agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi and other micro-organisms or parts of them
and their associated toxins, including those which have been genetically modified, cell cultures or
endoparasites which are potentially hazardous to human health
Note 1 to entry: Dusts of organic origin, for example, cotton dust, flour dust and wood dust, are not considered to
be biological agents and are therefore not covered by this definition.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 2.1.1, modified — Added “one of a number of agents such as” to definition and
changed “pollen” to “cotton dust”.]
2.1.1.2
chemical agent
chemical element or compound on its own or admixed as it occurs in the natural state or as produced,
used, or released, including release as waste, by any work activity, whether or not produced intentionally
and whether or not placed on the market
[SOURCE: Council Directive 98/24/EC, Art. 2 a]
2.1.2 Air pollutants
2.1.2.1
air pollutant
material emitted into the atmosphere either by human activity or natural processes and adversely
affecting humans or the environment
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 2.2.1, modified — Changed “man” to “humans”.]
2.1.2.2
airborne dust
finely divided matter, in solid form, dispersed in air
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 2.2.2]
2.1.2.3
airborne particles
fine matter, in solid or liquid form, dispersed in air
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 2.2.3, modified — Note 1 to entry deleted.]
2.1.2.4
total airborne particles
airborne particles (2.1.2.3) present in a given volume of air
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 2.2.6, modified — Added “present” after “particles”.]
2.1.2.5
vapour
gas phase of a substance in a state of equilibrium or disturbed equilibrium with the same substance in
a liquid or solid state below its boiling or sublimation point
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 2.2.7]
2.1.3 Health-related fractions and conventions
2.1.3.1
health-related fractions
collective term for the fractions of airborne particles (2.1.2.3) penetrating to
different regions of the respiratory tract, i.e. the inhalable, thoracic and respirable fractions
Note 1 to entry: The health-related fractions of airborne particles are specified in ISO 7708.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 2.3.1, modified — citation in Note 1 to entry changed from EN 481 to ISO 7708.]
2.1.3.1.1
inhalable fraction
mass fraction of total airborne particles (2.1.2.4) which is inhaled through the nose and mouth
Note 1 to entry: The inhalable fraction depends on the speed and direction of the air movement, on the rate of
breathing and other factors.
[SOURCE: ISO 7708:1995, 2.3]
2.1.3.1.2
extrathoracic fraction
mass fraction of total airborne particles (2.1.2.4) which fail to penetrate beyond the larynx
[SOURCE: ISO 7708:1995, 2.5, modified]
2.1.3.1.3
thoracic fraction
mass fraction of total airborne particles (2.1.2.4) which penetrate beyond the larynx
[SOURCE: ISO 7708:1995, 2.7, modified]
2.1.3.1.4
respirable fraction
mass fraction of total airborne particles (2.1.2.4) which penetrate to the unciliated airways
[SOURCE: ISO 7708:1995, 2.11, modified]
2.1.3.2
sampling convention
target specification for sampling instruments for a specified airborne particulate fraction
2 © ISO 2016 – All rights reserved

2.1.3.2.1
inhalable convention
target specification for sampling instruments when the inhalable fraction (2.1.3.1.1) is the fraction of
interest
[SOURCE: ISO 7708:1995, 2.4]
2.1.3.2.2
extrathoracic convention
target specification for sampling instruments when the extrathoracic fraction (2.1.3.1.2) is the fraction
of interest
[SOURCE: ISO 7708:1995, 2.6, modified — “the fraction” added before “of interest” for consistency of
wording.]
2.1.3.2.3
thoracic convention
target specification for sampling instruments when the thoracic fraction (2.1.3.1.3) is the fraction of
interest
[SOURCE: ISO 7708:1995, 2.8, modified — “the fraction” added before “of interest” for consistency of
wording.]
2.1.3.2.4
respirable convention
target specification for sampling instruments when the respirable fraction (2.1.3.1.4) is the fraction of
interest
[SOURCE: ISO 7708:1995, 2.12, modified — “the fraction” added before “of interest” for consistency of
wording.]
2.1.4 Aerosols
2.1.4.1
aerosol
airborne particles (2.1.2.3) and the gas (and vapour) mixture in which they are suspended
Note 1 to entry: The airborne particles can be in or out of equilibrium with their own vapours (2.1.2.5).
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 2.2.4]
2.1.4.2
bioaerosol
aerosol (2.1.4.1) consisting of (a) biological agent(s) (2.1.1.1)
Note 1 to entry: Airborne dusts (2.1.2.2) of organic origin, for example, cotton dust, flour dust and wood dust, are
not considered to be bioaerosols and are therefore not covered by this definition.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 2.2.5, modified — “pollen” changed to “cotton dust” in Note 1 to entry.]
2.1.4.3
nanoaerosol
aerosol (2.1.4.1) comprised of, or consisting of, nanoparticles (2.1.4.4) and nanostructured particles
(2.1.4.5)
[SOURCE: ISO/TR 27628:2007, 2.11]
2.1.4.4
nanoparticle
material with all three dimensions in the size range from approximately 1 nm to 100 nm
[SOURCE: ISO/TS 80004-4:2011, 2.1, 2.2, and 2.4, modified]
2.1.4.5
nanostructured particle
particle with structural features smaller than 100 nm, which can influence its physical, chemical and/or
biological properties
Note 1 to entry: A nanostructured particle can have a maximum dimension substantially larger than 100 nm.
EXAMPLE A 500 nm diameter agglomerate (2.1.4.9) of nanoparticles (2.1.4.4) would be considered a
nanostructured particle.
[SOURCE: ISO/TR 27628:2007, 2.13, modified — “may” changed to “can” in definition and Note 1 to entry.]
2.1.4.6
ultrafine aerosol
aerosol (2.1.4.1) consisting predominantly of ultrafine particles (2.1.4.7)
Note 1 to entry: The term is often used in the context of particles produced as a by-product of a process (incidental
particles), such as welding fume (B.2.2) and combustion fume
[SOURCE: ISO/TR 27628:2007, 2.20]
2.1.4.7
ultrafine particle
particle with a nominal diameter (such as geometric, aerodynamic, mobility, projected-area or
otherwise) of 100 nm or less, produced as a by-product of a process such as welding and combustion
[SOURCE: ISO/TR 27628:2007, 2.21, modified — Note 1 to entry moved to definition text.]
2.1.4.8
particle aerodynamic diameter
aerodynamic diameter
-3
diameter of a sphere of 1 g cm density with the same terminal settling velocity in calm air as the
particle, under the prevailing conditions of temperature, pressure and relative humidity
Note 1 to entry: The particle aerodynamic diameter depends on the size, density and shape of the particle.
Note 2 to entry: Aerodynamic diameter is related to the inertial properties of aerosol particles.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 2.3.2, modified — Note 2 to entry derived from ISO/TR 27628:2007, 2.2.]
2.1.4.9
agglomerate
group of particles held together by relatively weak forces, including van der Waals forces,
electrostatic forces and surface tension
[SOURCE: ISO/TR 27628:2007, 2.4 modified — Note 1 to entry deleted.]
2.1.4.10
aggregate
heterogeneous particle in which the various components are held together by relatively
strong forces and thus not easily broken apart
[SOURCE: ISO/TR 27628:2007, 2.5, modified – Note 1 to entry deleted.]
2.1.4.11
coagulation
formation of larger particles through the collision and subsequent adhesion of smaller particles
[SOURCE: ISO/TR 27628:2007, 2.6]
4 © ISO 2016 – All rights reserved

2.1.4.12
coalescence
formation of homogeneous particles through the collision of smaller liquid particles and subsequent
merging or mixing of constituent material
[SOURCE: ISO/TR 27628:2007, 2.7, modified — “liquid” added.]
2.1.5 Exposure assessment
2.1.5.1
exposure
situation in which a chemical agent (2.1.1.2) or biological agent (2.1.1.1) is present in the
air that is inhaled by a person
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 2.4.1, modified — “agent” added after “chemical” to facilitate cross-
referencing.]
2.1.5.2
dermal exposure
contact between a chemical agent (2.1.1.2) or biological agent (2.1.1.1) and human skin
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 2.4.2]
2.1.5.3
time-weighted average concentration
TWA concentration
concentration of a chemical agent (2.1.1.2) in the air, averaged over a reference period (2.1.5.7)
[SOURCE: ISO 21438-1:2007, 3.1.7, modified — Replaced “atmosphere” with “air”.]
2.1.5.4
occupational exposure limit value
OELV
limit of the time-weighted average of the concentration of a chemical agent (2.1.1.2) in the air within the
breathing zone (2.1.5.5) of a worker in relation to a specified reference period (2.1.5.7)
Note 1 to entry: The term “limit value” is often used as a synonym for “occupational exposure limit value” but the
term “occupational exposure limit value” is preferred because there is more than one limit value (e.g. biological
limit value and occupational exposure limit value).
Note 2 to entry: Occupational exposure limit values (OELVs) are often set for reference periods of 8 h but can also
be set for shorter periods or concentration excursions. OELVs for gases and vapours (2.1.2.5) are stated in terms
independent of temperature and air pressure variables in ml/m³ and in terms dependent on those variables
in mg/m³ for a temperature of 20 °C and a pressure of 101,3 kPa. OELVs for airborne particles (2.1.2.3) and
mixtures of particles and vapours are given in mg/m³ or multiples of that for actual environmental conditions
(temperature, pressure) at the workplace (2.1.6.2). OELVs of fibres are given in number of fibres/m³ or number of
fibres/cm³ for actual environmental conditions (temperature, pressure) at the workplace.
[SOURCE: Council Directive 98/24/EC, Art. 2 d, modified — “OELV” and new Note 1 to entry added;
original Note 1 becomes Note 2; “limit value” changed to “occupational exposure limit value” or “OELV”
in Note 2 to entry; “mostly” changed to “often” in first sentence of Note 2 to entry.]
2.1.5.5
breathing zone
space around the nose and mouth from which breath is taken
Note 1 to entry: Technically, the breathing zone corresponds to a hemisphere (generally accepted to be 30 cm
in radius) extending in front of the human face, centred on the midpoint of a line joining the ears. The base of
the hemisphere is a plane through this line, the top of the head and the larynx. This technical description is not
applicable when respiratory protective equipment is used.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 2.4.5]
2.1.5.6
measuring procedure
measurement procedure
measurement method
set of operations described specifically for the sampling and analysis (2.3.1) of chemical agents (2.1.1.2)
or biological agents (2.1.1.1) in air
Note 1 to entry: A measuring procedure usually includes preparation for sampling, conducting the sampling,
transportation and storage, and sample preparation (2.3.11) for analysis and conducting the analysis.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 2.4.6, modified — “agents” added after “chemical” to facilitate cross-
referencing and Note 1 to entry editorially modified.]
2.1.5.7
reference period
specified period of time for which the occupational exposure limit value (2.1.5.4) of a chemical
agent (2.1.1.2) or biological agent (2.1.1.1) applies
Note 1 to entry: The reference period is usually 8 h for long-term measurements and 15 min for short-term
measurements.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 2.4.7, modified — “agent” added after “chemical” to facilitate cross-
referencing.]
2.1.6 Other terms
2.1.6.1
dustiness
propensity of materials to produce airborne dust (2.1.2.2) during handling
Note 1 to entry: Dustiness is not an intrinsic property as it depends on how it is measured.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 2.5.1]
2.1.6.2
workplace
designated area or areas in which the work activities are carried out
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 2.5.2]
2.2 Terms related to the physical and chemical processes of workplace (air) sampling
2.2.1 Workplace (air) sample
2.2.1.1
sample
air sample
product of the process of (air) sampling (2.2.3.1)
Note 1 to entry: An air sample is frequently considered to include the collection substrate(s) (2.2.3.7) as well as
the collected chemical agents (2.1.1.2) and/or biological agents (2.1.1.1) or sometimes it is considered to be the
fractional part of a larger volume of air.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.1.1, modified — “” added as the domain for the
definition. In Note 1 to entry, “agents” added after “chemical” to facilitate cross-referencing.]
6 © ISO 2016 – All rights reserved

2.2.1.2
collected sample
product of the process of (air) sampling (2.2.3.1) that consists of the collected chemical agents (2.1.1.2)
and/or biological agents (2.1.1.1) only
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.1.2, modified — “Agents” added after “chemical” to facilitate cross-
referencing.]
2.2.1.3
personal sample
product of the process of using a sampler (2.2.2.1), attached to a person, to collect gases, vapours
(2.1.2.5), and/or airborne particles (2.1.2.3) in the breathing zone (2.1.5.5) for the purpose of measuring
exposure (2.1.5.1) to chemical agents (2.1.1.2) and/or biological agents (2.1.1.1)
2.2.1.4
static sample
area sample
product of using a sampler (2.2.2.1) in a stationary location that collects gases, vapours (2.1.2.5) and/or
airborne particles (2.1.2.3) for the purpose of measuring exposure (2.1.5.1) to chemical agents (2.1.1.2)
and/or biological agents (2.1.1.1)
2.2.2 Workplace (air) sampler
2.2.2.1
sampler
air sampler
device for separating and/or collecting chemical agents (2.1.1.2) and/or
biological agents (2.1.1.1) from the surrounding air
Note 1 to entry: (Air) samplers are generally designed for a particular purpose, e.g. for sampling gases and
vapours (2.1.2.5) or for sampling airborne particles.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.2.1, modified — “” added as the domain for the
definition. “Separating” changed to “separating and/or collecting”. “Agents” added after “chemical” to
facilitate cross-referencing.]
2.2.2.1.1
passive sampler
sampler (2.2.2.1) that collects gases, vapours (2.1.2.5) or airborne particles (2.1.2.3) on a collection
substrate (2.2.3.7) without active air movement
Note 1 to entry: Passive samplers include diffusive samplers (2.2.2.1.2) for collection of gases and vapours
and samplers for collection of airborne particles based on turbulent diffusion and separation by electrical or
other forces.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.2.1.1]
2.2.2.1.2
diffusive sampler
passive sampler (2.2.2.1.1) that collects gases or vapours (2.1.2.5) at a rate governed by diffusion through
a static air layer and/or permeation through a membrane
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.2.1.2, modified — Reference to airborne particles deleted and “a physical
process such as” deleted.]
2.2.2.1.3
active sampler
sampler (2.2.2.1) that collects gases, vapours (2.1.2.5) or airborne particles (2.1.2.3), by means of active
air movement
Note 1 to entry: Active samplers can collect samples (2.2.1.1) onto a collection substrate (2.2.3.7) such as a filter or
a sorbent tube (2.2.2.5) or can collect samples into a canister or bag.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.2.1.3, modified — The phrase “on a collection substrate” was deleted from
the definition and Note 1 to entry was added.]
2.2.2.1.4
pumped sampler
active sampler (2.2.2.1.3) that collects gases, vapours (2.1.2.5) or airborne particles (2.1.2.3) where the
active air movement is induced by means of a pump
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.2.1.4, modified — The phrase “on a collection substrate” was deleted from
the definition and Note 1 to entry was deleted.]
2.2.2.1.5
flow-controlled pump
pump with nominally constant flow rate provided by an automatic flow control system
[SOURCE: ISO 13137:2013, 3.10]
2.2.2.1.6
aerosol sampler
airborne particle sampler
airborne particulate sampler
device that is used to collect airborne particles (2.1.2.3)
Note 1 to entry: The term aerosol sampler is commonly used although it is not in line with the definition of aerosol
given in aerosol (2.1.4.1).
Note 2 to entry: The collection of airborne particles can be either active or passive.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.2.1.5, modified — Synonym format modified in accordance with
ISO 10241-1:2011. “Sampler” changed to “device” and “transport” changed to “collect” in definition. The
phrase “to a collection substrate” was deleted from definition. Cross-reference in Note 1 to entry was
modified and Note 2 to entry was modified.]
2.2.2.1.6.1
inhalable sampler
aerosol sampler (2.2.2.1.6) that is used to collect the inhalable fraction (2.1.3.1.1) of airborne particles
from the surrounding air
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.2.1.5.1, modified — “Of airborne particles from the surrounding air”
was added.]
2.2.2.1.6.2
thoracic sampler
aerosol sampler (2.2.2.1.6) that is used to collect the thoracic fraction (2.1.3.1.3) of airborne particles
from the surrounding air
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.2.1.5.2, modified — “Of airborne particles from the surrounding air”
was added.]
8 © ISO 2016 – All rights reserved

2.2.2.1.6.3
respirable sampler
aerosol sampler (2.2.2.1.6) that is used to collect the respirable fraction (2.1.3.1.4) of airborne particles
from the surrounding air
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.2.1.5.3, modified — “Of airborne particles from the surrounding air”
was added.]
2.2.2.1.7
mixed-phase sampler
sampler (2.2.2.1) or sampling train (2.2.2.6) that is used to collect airborne particles (2.1.2.3) and vapours
(2.1.2.5) onto one or more collection substrates (2.2.3.7)
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.2.1.6, modified — “Transport” changed to “collect.” “To one or more”
changed to “Onto one or more”.]
2.2.2.2
personal sampler
sampler (2.2.2.1), attached to a person, that collects gases, vapours (2.1.2.5) or airborne particles
(2.1.2.3) in the breathing zone (2.1.5.5) for the purpose of measuring exposure (2.1.5.1) to chemical
agents (2.1.1.2) and/or biological agents (2.1.1.1)
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.2.2, modified — “To determine” changed to “for the purpose of measuring”
and “agents” added after “chemical” to facilitate cross-referencing.]
2.2.2.3
static sampler
area sampler
stationary sampler (2.2.2.1), not attached to a person, that collects gases, vapours (2.1.2.5) or airborne
particles (2.1.2.3) at a particular location
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.2.3, modified — “Stationary” was added to the definition.]
2.2.2.4
length-of-stain detector tube
glass tube containing chemical reagents in which a colour change is produced on a graduated scale,
based on concentration of a specific chemical agent (2.1.1.2), when a sample (2.2.1.1) is drawn through it
2.2.2.5
sorbent tube
sampling device, usually made of metal or glass, containing a collection substrate (2.2.3.7) such as a
sorbent (B.3.3) or a support impregnated with reagent, through which sampled air passes
Note 1 to entry: Some sorbent tubes are intended for use as active samplers (2.2.2.1.3) and some as passive
samplers (2.2.2.1.1).
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.2.5, modified — “Sampling” and “through which sampled air passes” were
added to the definition.]
2.2.2.6
sampling train
apparatus consisting of one or more (air) samplers (2.2.2.1) connected in series, along with associated
sampling equipment and connecting tubing, used to collect one or more chemical agents (2.1.1.2)
2.2.3 Workplace (air) sampling
2.2.3.1
sampling
air sampling
process consisting of the collection of chemical agents (2.1.1.2) and/or biological
agents (2.1.1.1) from air or the withdrawal or isolation of a fractional part of a larger volume of air
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.3.1, modified — “” was added as the domain for the
definition. “Separation” was changed to “collection.” “Onto a collection substrate” was deleted. “Agents”
was added after “chemical” to facilitate cross-referencing.]
2.2.3.2
sampling method
air sampling method
all steps of the measuring procedure (2.1.5.6) that describe the physical process
of (air) sampling (2.2.3.1)
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.3.2, modified — “” added as the domain for the
definition.]
2.2.3.3
personal sampling
process of using a sampler (2.2.2.1), attached to a person, to collect gases, vapours (2.1.2.5) or airborne
particles (2.1.2.3) in the breathing zone (2.1.5.5) for the purpose of measuring exposure (2.1.5.1) to
chemical agents (2.1.1.2) and/or biological agents (2.1.1.1)
2.2.3.4
static sampling
area sampling
process of using a sampler (2.2.2.1) in a stationary location that collects gases, vapours (2.1.2.5) or
airborne particles (2.1.2.3) for the purpose of measuring exposure (2.1.5.1) to chemical agents (2.1.1.2)
and/or biological agents (2.1.1.1)
2.2.3.5
loading
amount of sample (2.2.1.1) collected
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.3.5, modified — definition pertaining to is in loading (2.2.3.6) and
“on the collection substrate” changed to “collected”.]
2.2.3.6
loading
amount of analyte (2.3.2) collected
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.3.5, modified — definition pertaining to (sample) is in loading (2.2.3.5) and
“on the collection substrate” changed to “collected”]
2.2.3.7
collection substrate
sampling substrate
collection medium
sampling medium
medium on which airborne chemical agents (2.1.1.2) and/or biological agents (2.1.1.1) are collected for
subsequent analysis (2.3.1)
Note 1 to entry: Filters, polyurethane foams, impinger solutions and sampling cassettes are examples of collection
substrates for airborne particles (2.1.2.3).
Note 2 to entry: Activated carbon, silica gel and reagent impregnated filters are examples of collection substrates
(2.2.3.7) for gases and vapours (2.1.2.5).
10 © ISO 2016 – All rights reserved

Note 3 to entry: Agar and water media are examples of collection substrates for bioaerosols (2.1.4.2).
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.3.6, modified — In Note 1 to entry, “impinger solutions” added; in Note 3 to
entry, “and water” added; “agents” added after “chemical” to facilitate cross-referencing.]
2.2.3.8
blank (sample)
unused collection substrate (2.2.3.7), taken from the same batch used for sampling (2.2.3.1), processed
so as to measure artifacts in the measurement (sampling and analysis) process
[SOURCE: EN 14902:2005, 3.1.9]
2.2.3.9
field blank
blank (sample) (2.2.3.8) that is transported to the sampling site, but not used for sample collection
Note 1 to entry: A field blank is loaded in the sampler (2.2.2.1), where applicable, and returned to the laboratory
in the same way as a sample (2.2.1.1).
Note 2 to entry: The results from the analysis (2.3.1) of field blanks are used to identify contamination of the
sample arising from handling in the field and during transport.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.3.8]
2.2.3.10
laboratory blank
method blank
blank (sample) (2.2.3.8) that is not transported to the field
Note 1 to entry: The laboratory blank undergoes the same handling as the sample substrate in the laboratory,
including conditioning and placing into the samplers (2.2.2.1) or transport containers when this is done in the
laboratory.
Note 2 to entry: The results from the analysis (2.3.1) of laboratory blanks are used to correct sample results for
contamination with analyte (2.3.2) and/or interferents (2.3.6).
2.2.3.11
breakthrough volume
volume of air that can be passed through a sampler (2.2.2.1) before the gas or vapour
(2.1.2.5) exceeds the capacity of the sampler
Note 1 to entry: For practical application, see EN 1076:2009, Annex A.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.3.9, modified — “elutes from” changed to “exceeds the capacity of”.]
2.2.3.12
sampling efficiency
sampler efficiency
for each particle aerodynamic diameter (2.1.4.8), relative fraction of the concentration
of airborne particles (2.1.2.3) collected from the undisturbed air onto the collection substrate (2.2.3.7)
for analysis (2.3.1)
Note 1 to entry: The sampling efficiency is independent of whether the particle concentration is determined by
number, surface area or mass.
Note 2 to entry: As used in this definition, the word “undisturbed” applies to ideal laboratory conditions where
the presence of the sampler (2.2.2.1) and the body onto which it is mounted do not disturb the determination of
the reference concentration. The word “undisturbed” does not refer to movement of the air itself.
Note 3 to entry: For an aerosol sampler (2.2.2.1.6) with internal separation, e.g. size-selective sampling, the
sampling efficiency is the product of the inlet efficiency and the internal penetration.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.3.10, modified — Synonym “efficiency curve” deleted; “aerodynamic
diameter of a particle” changed to “particle aerodynamic diameter”; “transported” changed to
“collected”; “to the collection substrate” changed to “onto the collection substrate”; new Note 2 to entry
added; in Note 3 to entry, “a sampler” changed to “an aerosol sampler”, “separation efficiency” changed
to “internal penetration”; “e.g. size selective sampling” added.]
2.2.3.13
pressure drop
difference between ambient pressure and the pressure at the inlet of the pump, for a
constant volume flow rate setting
Note 1 to entry: The pressure drop, sometimes referred to as back pressure, is measured across the sampler
(2.2.2.1), the collection substrate (2.2.3.7) and the tubing.
[SOURCE: ISO 13137:2013, 3.9]
2.2.3.14
operating time
period during which the sampling pump can be operated at specified flow rate and pressure drop
(2.2.3.13) without recharging or replacing the battery
[SOURCE: ISO 13137:2013, 3.12, modified — “sampling” added.]
2.3 Terms related to the analytical method
2.3.1
analysis
all operations carried out after sample preparation (2.3.11) to determine the amount or concentration
of the analyte(s) (2.3.2) of interest present in the sample (2.2.1.1)
Note 1 to entry: Adapted from EN 14902:2005, 3.1.1.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 4.1]
2.3.2
analyte
substance or chemical constituent that is determined in an analytical method (2.3.3)
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 4.2]
2.3.3
analytical method
all steps of the measuring procedure (2.1.5.6) that describe the overall process of sample preparation
(2.3.11) and analysis (2.3.1)
Note 1 to entry: In the context of this International Standard, determination of mass by weighing is considered to
be an analytical method.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 4.3]
2.3.4
homologous series
series of compounds possessing similar physicochemical properties, each member of which differs from
the preceding member by addition of a repeating unit
Note 1 to entry: A common example of the repeating unit is the –CH2- methylene group.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 4.4, modified — In Note 1, “The most” changed to “A”.]
12 © ISO 2016 – All rights reserved

2.3.5
instrumental detection limit
IDL
lowest concentration at which an instrument can distinguish the presence of analyte (2.3.2) from the
background generated by a matrix, such as a reagent blank (2.3.9), having a minimal content of that analyte
[SOURCE: ISO 30011:2010, 3.2.7, modified — “analyte content” changed to “the presence of analyte”,
“minimal matrix” changed to “matrix, such as a reagent blank, having a minimal content of that analyte”
for clarity, and Note 1 to entry not included.]
2.3.6
interferent
constituent of the (air) sample (2.2.1.1) or other aspect of the sampling or analytical procedure having
an adverse effect on the accuracy of the measurement
Note 1 to entry: Interferents can include components of sampling or analysis equipment, reagents, etc.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 4.5, modified — Added “or other aspect of the sampling or analytical
procedure” and added Note 1 to entry.]
2.3.7
dynamic range
range of concentrations over which the measured analyte (2.3.2) response is suitable for the measuring
procedure (2.1.5.6)
Note 1 to entry: For example, in methods such as atomic spectrometry, the linear dynamic range extends from
the limit of quantification (2.4.3.5) to the onset of calibration curvature. See ISO 30011 for more information.
2.3.8
measurand
particular quantity subject to measurement
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 4.6]
2.3.9
reagent blank
all reagents used in sample preparation (2.3.11), in the same quantities used to prepare blank and
sample solutions
Note 1 to entry: The reagent blank is used to assess contamination from the laboratory environment and to
characterize background from the reagents used in sample preparation.
[SOURCE: ISO 30011:2010, 3.2.12, modified — Editorially improved.]
2.3.10
reference sample
sample (2.2.1.1) having a known or measured content and/or loading (2.2.3.6) of the analyte (2.3.2) of
interest
Note 1 to entry: A reference sample can be analysed to determine the analytical bias (2.4.3.1.1) or the analytical
precision (2.4.2.6) of a measuring procedure (2.1.5.6).
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 4.7, modified — “or loading” changed to “and/or loading”.]
2.3.11
sample preparation
all operations carried out on a sample (2.2.1.1), usually after transportation and storage, to prepare it
for analysis (2.3.1), including transformation of the sample into a measurable state, where necessary
Note 1 to entry: Adapted from EN 14902:2005, 3.1.24.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 4.8]
2.4 Terms related to method performance
2.4.1 Efficiency
2.4.1.1
analytical recovery
all operations carried out after sample preparation (2.3.11) to determine the amount or concentration
of the analyte(s) (2.3.2) of interest present in the collected sample (2.2.1.2)
Note 1 to entry: Adapted from EN 14902:2005, 3.1.1.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 5.1.1]
2.4.1.2
method recovery
ratio of the measured concentration of chemical agent (2.1.1.2) in air to its actual concentration
Note 1 to entry: The method recovery is usually given as a percentage.
Note 2 to entry: The method recovery incorporates both sampling efficiency (2.2.3.12) and analytical recovery
(2.4.1.1).
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 5.1.2, modified — Changed “determined” to “measured”.]
2.4.1.3
selectivity
extent of independence of a measuring procedure (2.1.5.6) from interferences
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 5.1.3]
2.4.2 Uncertainty
2.4.2.1
uncertainty of measurement
measurement error
measured quantity value (2.4.2.1.1) minus a reference quantity value (2.4.2.1.2)
Note 1 to entry: Application of the concept of measurement uncertainty is described in JCGM 200:2012.
[SOURCE: JCGM 200:2012, 2.16, modified — Only the JCGM definition is used; Note 1 to entry is added.]
2.4.2.1.1
measured quantity value
value of a measured quantity
measured value
quantity value representing a measurement result
Note 1 to entry: Additional information can be found in JCGM 200:2012.
[SOURCE: JCGM 200:2012, 2.10, modified – Only the JCGM definition is used; Note 1 to entry is added.]
2.4.2.1.2
reference quantity value
reference value
quantity value used as a basis for comparison with values of quantities of the same kind
Note 1 to entry: Additional information can be found in JCGM 200:2012.
[SOURCE: JCGM 200:2012, 5.18, modified — Only the JCGM definition is used; Note 1 to entry is added.]
14 © ISO 2016 – All rights reserved

2.4.2.1.3
non-random uncertainty
systematic measurement error
systematic error of measurement
systematic error
component of uncertainty of measurement (2.4.2.1) that, in replicate measurements, remains constant
or varies in a predictable manner
Note 1 to entry: Additional information can be found in JCGM 200:2012.
[SOURCE: JCGM 200:2012, 2.17, modified — Only the JCGM definition is used; Note 1 to entry is added.]
2.4.2.1.4
random uncertainty
random measurement error
random error of measurement
random error
uncertainty associated with random errors
Note 1 to entry: Additional information can be found in JCGM 200:2012.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 5.2.1.2, modified — Note 1 to entry added.]
2.4.2.2
analytical uncertainty
analytical error
u
a
combined uncertainty of the analytical method (2.3.3) including contributions from the analytical
recovery (2.4.1.1) and the analytical variability
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 5.2.2, modified — Synonym “analytical error” has been added and Note 1 to
entry has been moved into the definition.]
2.4.2.2.1
non-random analytical uncertainty
systematic analytical error
u
a,nr
uncertainty associated with non-random analytical error
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 5.2.2.1]
2.4.2.2.2
random analytical uncertainty
random analytical error
u
a,r
uncertainty associated with random analytical error
Note 1 to entry: The random analytical error (in some cases called “analytical variability”) is equivalent to
the analytical precision (2.4.2.6) determined under reproducibility conditions or the analytical precision
determined under repeatability conditions together with other random uncertainty components associated with
interferences, calibration, instrument response drift, blank correction, etc.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 5.2.2.2]
2.4.2.3
sampling uncertainty
sampling error
u
s
combined uncertainty of the sampling method (2.2.3.2) including, where relevant, contributions from
sampled air volume, sampling efficiency (2.2.3.12), sample storage and, if applicable, transport
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 5.2.3, modified — Synonym “sampling error” has been added, “sampling
procedure” changed to “sampling method”, and note moved into definition.]
2.4.2.3.1
non-random sampling uncertainty
systematic sampling uncertainty
systematic sampling error
u
s,nr
uncertainty associated with non-random sampling error
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 5.2.3.1]
2.4.2.3.2
random sampling uncertainty
random sampling error
u
s,r
uncertainty associated with random sampling error
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 5.2.3.2]
2.4.2.4
combined standard uncertainty
u
c
uncertainty of the result of a measurement, expressed as a standard deviation, when that result is
obtained from the values of a number of other quantities, equal to the positive sq
...

SLOVENSKI STANDARD
01-marec-2018
Zrak na delovnem mestu - Terminologija
Workplace air - Terminology
Qualité de l'air - Terminologie
Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z: ISO 18158:2016
ICS:
01.020 7HUPLQRORJLMDQDþHODLQ Terminology (principles and
NRRUGLQDFLMD coordination)
13.040.30 Kakovost zraka na delovnem Workplace atmospheres
mestu
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.

INTERNATIONAL ISO
STANDARD 18158
First edition
2016-03-01
Workplace air — Terminology
Qualité de l’air — Terminologie
Reference number
©
ISO 2016
© ISO 2016, Published in Switzerland
All rights reserved. Unless otherwise specified, no part of this publication may be reproduced or utilized otherwise in any form
or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, or posting on the internet or an intranet, without prior
written permission. Permission can be requested from either ISO at the address below or ISO’s member body in the country of
the requester.
ISO copyright office
Ch. de Blandonnet 8 • CP 401
CH-1214 Vernier, Geneva, Switzerland
Tel. [phone]
Fax [phone]
[e-mail]
www.iso.org
ii © ISO 2016 – All rights reserved

Contents Page
Foreword .iv
Introduction .v
1 Scope . 1
2 Terms and definitions . 1
2.1 General terms . 1
2.1.1 Agents . 1
2.1.2 Air pollutants . 1
2.1.3 Health-related fractions and conventions . 2
2.1.4 Aerosols . 3
2.1.5 Exposure assessment . 5
2.1.6 Other terms . 6
2.2 Terms related to the physical and chemical processes of workplace (air) sampling . 6
2.2.1 Workplace (air) sample. 6
2.2.2 Workplace (air) sampler . 7
2.2.3 Workplace (air) sampling .10
2.3 Terms related to the analytical method .12
2.4 Terms related to method performance .14
2.4.1 Efficiency .14
2.4.2 Uncertainty .14
2.4.3 General statistical terms .17
2.4.4 Other statistical terms . .19
Annex A (informative) Alphabetical index of terms defined .20
Annex B (informative) Additional terms .24
Bibliography .28
Foreword
ISO (the International Organization for Standardization) is a worldwide federation of national standards
bodies (ISO member bodies). The work of preparing International Standards is normally carried out
through ISO technical committees. Each member body interested in a subject for which a technical
committee has been established has the right to be represented on that committee. International
organizations, governmental and non-governmental, in liaison with ISO, also take part in the work.
ISO collaborates closely with the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) on all matters of
electrotechnical standardization.
The procedures used to develop this document and those intended for its further maintenance are
described in the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 1. In particular the different approval criteria needed for the
different types of ISO documents should be noted. This document was drafted in accordance with the
editorial rules of the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2 (see www.iso.org/directives).
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of
patent rights. ISO shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights. Details of
any patent rights identified during the development of the document will be in the Introduction and/or
on the ISO list of patent declarations received (see www.iso.org/patents).
Any trade name used in this document is information given for the convenience of users and does not
constitute an endorsement.
For an explanation on the meaning of ISO specific terms and expressions related to conformity
assessment, as well as information about ISO’s adherence to the WTO principles in the Technical
Barriers to Trade (TBT) see the following URL: Foreword - Supplementary information
The committee responsible for this document is ISO/TC 146, Air quality, Subcommittee SC 2, Workplace
atmospheres.
iv © ISO 2016 – All rights reserved

Introduction
The health of workers in many industries is at risk through exposure by inhalation of chemical and
biological agents. Industrial hygienists and other public health professionals need to determine the
effectiveness of measures taken to control workers’ exposure and this is generally achieved by making
workplace air measurements.
Many terms that are commonly used in relation to workplace air measurements and exposure
assessments are defined within individual standards or technical documents and are often defined
differently from one standard or document to the next. This creates ambiguities and inconsistencies
in the use of such terms. This International Standard was developed to ensure that commonly used
terms have agreed-upon definitions and to eliminate ambiguities and inconsistencies in their usage. It
will be of benefit to agencies concerned with health and safety at work, industrial hygienists and other
public health professionals, analytical laboratories, industrial users of metals and metalloids and their
workers.
INTERNATIONAL STANDARD ISO 18158:2016(E)
Workplace air — Terminology
1 Scope
This International Standard specifies terms and definitions that are related to the assessment of
workplace exposure (see 2.1.5.1) to chemical and biological agents (see 2.1.1.1). These are either
general terms or are specific to physical and chemical processes of air sampling, the analytical method
(see 2.3.3), or method performance.
The terms included are those that have been identified as being fundamental because their definition is
necessary to avoid ambiguity and ensure consistency of use.
This International Standard is applicable to all International Standards, ISO Technical Reports, ISO
Technical Specifications, and ISO Guides related to workplace atmospheres.
2 Terms and definitions
2.1 General terms
2.1.1 Agents
2.1.1.1
biological agent
one of a number of agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi and other micro-organisms or parts of them
and their associated toxins, including those which have been genetically modified, cell cultures or
endoparasites which are potentially hazardous to human health
Note 1 to entry: Dusts of organic origin, for example, cotton dust, flour dust and wood dust, are not considered to
be biological agents and are therefore not covered by this definition.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 2.1.1, modified — Added “one of a number of agents such as” to definition and
changed “pollen” to “cotton dust”.]
2.1.1.2
chemical agent
chemical element or compound on its own or admixed as it occurs in the natural state or as produced,
used, or released, including release as waste, by any work activity, whether or not produced intentionally
and whether or not placed on the market
[SOURCE: Council Directive 98/24/EC, Art. 2 a]
2.1.2 Air pollutants
2.1.2.1
air pollutant
material emitted into the atmosphere either by human activity or natural processes and adversely
affecting humans or the environment
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 2.2.1, modified — Changed “man” to “humans”.]
2.1.2.2
airborne dust
finely divided matter, in solid form, dispersed in air
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 2.2.2]
2.1.2.3
airborne particles
fine matter, in solid or liquid form, dispersed in air
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 2.2.3, modified — Note 1 to entry deleted.]
2.1.2.4
total airborne particles
airborne particles (2.1.2.3) present in a given volume of air
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 2.2.6, modified — Added “present” after “particles”.]
2.1.2.5
vapour
gas phase of a substance in a state of equilibrium or disturbed equilibrium with the same substance in
a liquid or solid state below its boiling or sublimation point
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 2.2.7]
2.1.3 Health-related fractions and conventions
2.1.3.1
health-related fractions
collective term for the fractions of airborne particles (2.1.2.3) penetrating to
different regions of the respiratory tract, i.e. the inhalable, thoracic and respirable fractions
Note 1 to entry: The health-related fractions of airborne particles are specified in ISO 7708.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 2.3.1, modified — citation in Note 1 to entry changed from EN 481 to ISO 7708.]
2.1.3.1.1
inhalable fraction
mass fraction of total airborne particles (2.1.2.4) which is inhaled through the nose and mouth
Note 1 to entry: The inhalable fraction depends on the speed and direction of the air movement, on the rate of
breathing and other factors.
[SOURCE: ISO 7708:1995, 2.3]
2.1.3.1.2
extrathoracic fraction
mass fraction of total airborne particles (2.1.2.4) which fail to penetrate beyond the larynx
[SOURCE: ISO 7708:1995, 2.5, modified]
2.1.3.1.3
thoracic fraction
mass fraction of total airborne particles (2.1.2.4) which penetrate beyond the larynx
[SOURCE: ISO 7708:1995, 2.7, modified]
2.1.3.1.4
respirable fraction
mass fraction of total airborne particles (2.1.2.4) which penetrate to the unciliated airways
[SOURCE: ISO 7708:1995, 2.11, modified]
2.1.3.2
sampling convention
target specification for sampling instruments for a specified airborne particulate fraction
2 © ISO 2016 – All rights reserved

2.1.3.2.1
inhalable convention
target specification for sampling instruments when the inhalable fraction (2.1.3.1.1) is the fraction of
interest
[SOURCE: ISO 7708:1995, 2.4]
2.1.3.2.2
extrathoracic convention
target specification for sampling instruments when the extrathoracic fraction (2.1.3.1.2) is the fraction
of interest
[SOURCE: ISO 7708:1995, 2.6, modified — “the fraction” added before “of interest” for consistency of
wording.]
2.1.3.2.3
thoracic convention
target specification for sampling instruments when the thoracic fraction (2.1.3.1.3) is the fraction of
interest
[SOURCE: ISO 7708:1995, 2.8, modified — “the fraction” added before “of interest” for consistency of
wording.]
2.1.3.2.4
respirable convention
target specification for sampling instruments when the respirable fraction (2.1.3.1.4) is the fraction of
interest
[SOURCE: ISO 7708:1995, 2.12, modified — “the fraction” added before “of interest” for consistency of
wording.]
2.1.4 Aerosols
2.1.4.1
aerosol
airborne particles (2.1.2.3) and the gas (and vapour) mixture in which they are suspended
Note 1 to entry: The airborne particles can be in or out of equilibrium with their own vapours (2.1.2.5).
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 2.2.4]
2.1.4.2
bioaerosol
aerosol (2.1.4.1) consisting of (a) biological agent(s) (2.1.1.1)
Note 1 to entry: Airborne dusts (2.1.2.2) of organic origin, for example, cotton dust, flour dust and wood dust, are
not considered to be bioaerosols and are therefore not covered by this definition.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 2.2.5, modified — “pollen” changed to “cotton dust” in Note 1 to entry.]
2.1.4.3
nanoaerosol
aerosol (2.1.4.1) comprised of, or consisting of, nanoparticles (2.1.4.4) and nanostructured particles
(2.1.4.5)
[SOURCE: ISO/TR 27628:2007, 2.11]
2.1.4.4
nanoparticle
material with all three dimensions in the size range from approximately 1 nm to 100 nm
[SOURCE: ISO/TS 80004-4:2011, 2.1, 2.2, and 2.4, modified]
2.1.4.5
nanostructured particle
particle with structural features smaller than 100 nm, which can influence its physical, chemical and/or
biological properties
Note 1 to entry: A nanostructured particle can have a maximum dimension substantially larger than 100 nm.
EXAMPLE A 500 nm diameter agglomerate (2.1.4.9) of nanoparticles (2.1.4.4) would be considered a
nanostructured particle.
[SOURCE: ISO/TR 27628:2007, 2.13, modified — “may” changed to “can” in definition and Note 1 to entry.]
2.1.4.6
ultrafine aerosol
aerosol (2.1.4.1) consisting predominantly of ultrafine particles (2.1.4.7)
Note 1 to entry: The term is often used in the context of particles produced as a by-product of a process (incidental
particles), such as welding fume (B.2.2) and combustion fume
[SOURCE: ISO/TR 27628:2007, 2.20]
2.1.4.7
ultrafine particle
particle with a nominal diameter (such as geometric, aerodynamic, mobility, projected-area or
otherwise) of 100 nm or less, produced as a by-product of a process such as welding and combustion
[SOURCE: ISO/TR 27628:2007, 2.21, modified — Note 1 to entry moved to definition text.]
2.1.4.8
particle aerodynamic diameter
aerodynamic diameter
-3
diameter of a sphere of 1 g cm density with the same terminal settling velocity in calm air as the
particle, under the prevailing conditions of temperature, pressure and relative humidity
Note 1 to entry: The particle aerodynamic diameter depends on the size, density and shape of the particle.
Note 2 to entry: Aerodynamic diameter is related to the inertial properties of aerosol particles.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 2.3.2, modified — Note 2 to entry derived from ISO/TR 27628:2007, 2.2.]
2.1.4.9
agglomerate
group of particles held together by relatively weak forces, including van der Waals forces,
electrostatic forces and surface tension
[SOURCE: ISO/TR 27628:2007, 2.4 modified — Note 1 to entry deleted.]
2.1.4.10
aggregate
heterogeneous particle in which the various components are held together by relatively
strong forces and thus not easily broken apart
[SOURCE: ISO/TR 27628:2007, 2.5, modified – Note 1 to entry deleted.]
2.1.4.11
coagulation
formation of larger particles through the collision and subsequent adhesion of smaller particles
[SOURCE: ISO/TR 27628:2007, 2.6]
4 © ISO 2016 – All rights reserved

2.1.4.12
coalescence
formation of homogeneous particles through the collision of smaller liquid particles and subsequent
merging or mixing of constituent material
[SOURCE: ISO/TR 27628:2007, 2.7, modified — “liquid” added.]
2.1.5 Exposure assessment
2.1.5.1
exposure
situation in which a chemical agent (2.1.1.2) or biological agent (2.1.1.1) is present in the
air that is inhaled by a person
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 2.4.1, modified — “agent” added after “chemical” to facilitate cross-
referencing.]
2.1.5.2
dermal exposure
contact between a chemical agent (2.1.1.2) or biological agent (2.1.1.1) and human skin
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 2.4.2]
2.1.5.3
time-weighted average concentration
TWA concentration
concentration of a chemical agent (2.1.1.2) in the air, averaged over a reference period (2.1.5.7)
[SOURCE: ISO 21438-1:2007, 3.1.7, modified — Replaced “atmosphere” with “air”.]
2.1.5.4
occupational exposure limit value
OELV
limit of the time-weighted average of the concentration of a chemical agent (2.1.1.2) in the air within the
breathing zone (2.1.5.5) of a worker in relation to a specified reference period (2.1.5.7)
Note 1 to entry: The term “limit value” is often used as a synonym for “occupational exposure limit value” but the
term “occupational exposure limit value” is preferred because there is more than one limit value (e.g. biological
limit value and occupational exposure limit value).
Note 2 to entry: Occupational exposure limit values (OELVs) are often set for reference periods of 8 h but can also
be set for shorter periods or concentration excursions. OELVs for gases and vapours (2.1.2.5) are stated in terms
independent of temperature and air pressure variables in ml/m³ and in terms dependent on those variables
in mg/m³ for a temperature of 20 °C and a pressure of 101,3 kPa. OELVs for airborne particles (2.1.2.3) and
mixtures of particles and vapours are given in mg/m³ or multiples of that for actual environmental conditions
(temperature, pressure) at the workplace (2.1.6.2). OELVs of fibres are given in number of fibres/m³ or number of
fibres/cm³ for actual environmental conditions (temperature, pressure) at the workplace.
[SOURCE: Council Directive 98/24/EC, Art. 2 d, modified — “OELV” and new Note 1 to entry added;
original Note 1 becomes Note 2; “limit value” changed to “occupational exposure limit value” or “OELV”
in Note 2 to entry; “mostly” changed to “often” in first sentence of Note 2 to entry.]
2.1.5.5
breathing zone
space around the nose and mouth from which breath is taken
Note 1 to entry: Technically, the breathing zone corresponds to a hemisphere (generally accepted to be 30 cm
in radius) extending in front of the human face, centred on the midpoint of a line joining the ears. The base of
the hemisphere is a plane through this line, the top of the head and the larynx. This technical description is not
applicable when respiratory protective equipment is used.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 2.4.5]
2.1.5.6
measuring procedure
measurement procedure
measurement method
set of operations described specifically for the sampling and analysis (2.3.1) of chemical agents (2.1.1.2)
or biological agents (2.1.1.1) in air
Note 1 to entry: A measuring procedure usually includes preparation for sampling, conducting the sampling,
transportation and storage, and sample preparation (2.3.11) for analysis and conducting the analysis.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 2.4.6, modified — “agents” added after “chemical” to facilitate cross-
referencing and Note 1 to entry editorially modified.]
2.1.5.7
reference period
specified period of time for which the occupational exposure limit value (2.1.5.4) of a chemical
agent (2.1.1.2) or biological agent (2.1.1.1) applies
Note 1 to entry: The reference period is usually 8 h for long-term measurements and 15 min for short-term
measurements.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 2.4.7, modified — “agent” added after “chemical” to facilitate cross-
referencing.]
2.1.6 Other terms
2.1.6.1
dustiness
propensity of materials to produce airborne dust (2.1.2.2) during handling
Note 1 to entry: Dustiness is not an intrinsic property as it depends on how it is measured.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 2.5.1]
2.1.6.2
workplace
designated area or areas in which the work activities are carried out
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 2.5.2]
2.2 Terms related to the physical and chemical processes of workplace (air) sampling
2.2.1 Workplace (air) sample
2.2.1.1
sample
air sample
product of the process of (air) sampling (2.2.3.1)
Note 1 to entry: An air sample is frequently considered to include the collection substrate(s) (2.2.3.7) as well as
the collected chemical agents (2.1.1.2) and/or biological agents (2.1.1.1) or sometimes it is considered to be the
fractional part of a larger volume of air.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.1.1, modified — “” added as the domain for the
definition. In Note 1 to entry, “agents” added after “chemical” to facilitate cross-referencing.]
6 © ISO 2016 – All rights reserved

2.2.1.2
collected sample
product of the process of (air) sampling (2.2.3.1) that consists of the collected chemical agents (2.1.1.2)
and/or biological agents (2.1.1.1) only
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.1.2, modified — “Agents” added after “chemical” to facilitate cross-
referencing.]
2.2.1.3
personal sample
product of the process of using a sampler (2.2.2.1), attached to a person, to collect gases, vapours
(2.1.2.5), and/or airborne particles (2.1.2.3) in the breathing zone (2.1.5.5) for the purpose of measuring
exposure (2.1.5.1) to chemical agents (2.1.1.2) and/or biological agents (2.1.1.1)
2.2.1.4
static sample
area sample
product of using a sampler (2.2.2.1) in a stationary location that collects gases, vapours (2.1.2.5) and/or
airborne particles (2.1.2.3) for the purpose of measuring exposure (2.1.5.1) to chemical agents (2.1.1.2)
and/or biological agents (2.1.1.1)
2.2.2 Workplace (air) sampler
2.2.2.1
sampler
air sampler
device for separating and/or collecting chemical agents (2.1.1.2) and/or
biological agents (2.1.1.1) from the surrounding air
Note 1 to entry: (Air) samplers are generally designed for a particular purpose, e.g. for sampling gases and
vapours (2.1.2.5) or for sampling airborne particles.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.2.1, modified — “” added as the domain for the
definition. “Separating” changed to “separating and/or collecting”. “Agents” added after “chemical” to
facilitate cross-referencing.]
2.2.2.1.1
passive sampler
sampler (2.2.2.1) that collects gases, vapours (2.1.2.5) or airborne particles (2.1.2.3) on a collection
substrate (2.2.3.7) without active air movement
Note 1 to entry: Passive samplers include diffusive samplers (2.2.2.1.2) for collection of gases and vapours
and samplers for collection of airborne particles based on turbulent diffusion and separation by electrical or
other forces.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.2.1.1]
2.2.2.1.2
diffusive sampler
passive sampler (2.2.2.1.1) that collects gases or vapours (2.1.2.5) at a rate governed by diffusion through
a static air layer and/or permeation through a membrane
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.2.1.2, modified — Reference to airborne particles deleted and “a physical
process such as” deleted.]
2.2.2.1.3
active sampler
sampler (2.2.2.1) that collects gases, vapours (2.1.2.5) or airborne particles (2.1.2.3), by means of active
air movement
Note 1 to entry: Active samplers can collect samples (2.2.1.1) onto a collection substrate (2.2.3.7) such as a filter or
a sorbent tube (2.2.2.5) or can collect samples into a canister or bag.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.2.1.3, modified — The phrase “on a collection substrate” was deleted from
the definition and Note 1 to entry was added.]
2.2.2.1.4
pumped sampler
active sampler (2.2.2.1.3) that collects gases, vapours (2.1.2.5) or airborne particles (2.1.2.3) where the
active air movement is induced by means of a pump
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.2.1.4, modified — The phrase “on a collection substrate” was deleted from
the definition and Note 1 to entry was deleted.]
2.2.2.1.5
flow-controlled pump
pump with nominally constant flow rate provided by an automatic flow control system
[SOURCE: ISO 13137:2013, 3.10]
2.2.2.1.6
aerosol sampler
airborne particle sampler
airborne particulate sampler
device that is used to collect airborne particles (2.1.2.3)
Note 1 to entry: The term aerosol sampler is commonly used although it is not in line with the definition of aerosol
given in aerosol (2.1.4.1).
Note 2 to entry: The collection of airborne particles can be either active or passive.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.2.1.5, modified — Synonym format modified in accordance with
ISO 10241-1:2011. “Sampler” changed to “device” and “transport” changed to “collect” in definition. The
phrase “to a collection substrate” was deleted from definition. Cross-reference in Note 1 to entry was
modified and Note 2 to entry was modified.]
2.2.2.1.6.1
inhalable sampler
aerosol sampler (2.2.2.1.6) that is used to collect the inhalable fraction (2.1.3.1.1) of airborne particles
from the surrounding air
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.2.1.5.1, modified — “Of airborne particles from the surrounding air”
was added.]
2.2.2.1.6.2
thoracic sampler
aerosol sampler (2.2.2.1.6) that is used to collect the thoracic fraction (2.1.3.1.3) of airborne particles
from the surrounding air
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.2.1.5.2, modified — “Of airborne particles from the surrounding air”
was added.]
8 © ISO 2016 – All rights reserved

2.2.2.1.6.3
respirable sampler
aerosol sampler (2.2.2.1.6) that is used to collect the respirable fraction (2.1.3.1.4) of airborne particles
from the surrounding air
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.2.1.5.3, modified — “Of airborne particles from the surrounding air”
was added.]
2.2.2.1.7
mixed-phase sampler
sampler (2.2.2.1) or sampling train (2.2.2.6) that is used to collect airborne particles (2.1.2.3) and vapours
(2.1.2.5) onto one or more collection substrates (2.2.3.7)
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.2.1.6, modified — “Transport” changed to “collect.” “To one or more”
changed to “Onto one or more”.]
2.2.2.2
personal sampler
sampler (2.2.2.1), attached to a person, that collects gases, vapours (2.1.2.5) or airborne particles
(2.1.2.3) in the breathing zone (2.1.5.5) for the purpose of measuring exposure (2.1.5.1) to chemical
agents (2.1.1.2) and/or biological agents (2.1.1.1)
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.2.2, modified — “To determine” changed to “for the purpose of measuring”
and “agents” added after “chemical” to facilitate cross-referencing.]
2.2.2.3
static sampler
area sampler
stationary sampler (2.2.2.1), not attached to a person, that collects gases, vapours (2.1.2.5) or airborne
particles (2.1.2.3) at a particular location
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.2.3, modified — “Stationary” was added to the definition.]
2.2.2.4
length-of-stain detector tube
glass tube containing chemical reagents in which a colour change is produced on a graduated scale,
based on concentration of a specific chemical agent (2.1.1.2), when a sample (2.2.1.1) is drawn through it
2.2.2.5
sorbent tube
sampling device, usually made of metal or glass, containing a collection substrate (2.2.3.7) such as a
sorbent (B.3.3) or a support impregnated with reagent, through which sampled air passes
Note 1 to entry: Some sorbent tubes are intended for use as active samplers (2.2.2.1.3) and some as passive
samplers (2.2.2.1.1).
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.2.5, modified — “Sampling” and “through which sampled air passes” were
added to the definition.]
2.2.2.6
sampling train
apparatus consisting of one or more (air) samplers (2.2.2.1) connected in series, along with associated
sampling equipment and connecting tubing, used to collect one or more chemical agents (2.1.1.2)
2.2.3 Workplace (air) sampling
2.2.3.1
sampling
air sampling
process consisting of the collection of chemical agents (2.1.1.2) and/or biological
agents (2.1.1.1) from air or the withdrawal or isolation of a fractional part of a larger volume of air
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.3.1, modified — “” was added as the domain for the
definition. “Separation” was changed to “collection.” “Onto a collection substrate” was deleted. “Agents”
was added after “chemical” to facilitate cross-referencing.]
2.2.3.2
sampling method
air sampling method
all steps of the measuring procedure (2.1.5.6) that describe the physical process
of (air) sampling (2.2.3.1)
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.3.2, modified — “” added as the domain for the
definition.]
2.2.3.3
personal sampling
process of using a sampler (2.2.2.1), attached to a person, to collect gases, vapours (2.1.2.5) or airborne
particles (2.1.2.3) in the breathing zone (2.1.5.5) for the purpose of measuring exposure (2.1.5.1) to
chemical agents (2.1.1.2) and/or biological agents (2.1.1.1)
2.2.3.4
static sampling
area sampling
process of using a sampler (2.2.2.1) in a stationary location that collects gases, vapours (2.1.2.5) or
airborne particles (2.1.2.3) for the purpose of measuring exposure (2.1.5.1) to chemical agents (2.1.1.2)
and/or biological agents (2.1.1.1)
2.2.3.5
loading
amount of sample (2.2.1.1) collected
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.3.5, modified — definition pertaining to is in loading (2.2.3.6) and
“on the collection substrate” changed to “collected”.]
2.2.3.6
loading
amount of analyte (2.3.2) collected
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.3.5, modified — definition pertaining to (sample) is in loading (2.2.3.5) and
“on the collection substrate” changed to “collected”]
2.2.3.7
collection substrate
sampling substrate
collection medium
sampling medium
medium on which airborne chemical agents (2.1.1.2) and/or biological agents (2.1.1.1) are collected for
subsequent analysis (2.3.1)
Note 1 to entry: Filters, polyurethane foams, impinger solutions and sampling cassettes are examples of collection
substrates for airborne particles (2.1.2.3).
Note 2 to entry: Activated carbon, silica gel and reagent impregnated filters are examples of collection substrates
(2.2.3.7) for gases and vapours (2.1.2.5).
10 © ISO 2016 – All rights reserved

Note 3 to entry: Agar and water media are examples of collection substrates for bioaerosols (2.1.4.2).
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.3.6, modified — In Note 1 to entry, “impinger solutions” added; in Note 3 to
entry, “and water” added; “agents” added after “chemical” to facilitate cross-referencing.]
2.2.3.8
blank (sample)
unused collection substrate (2.2.3.7), taken from the same batch used for sampling (2.2.3.1), processed
so as to measure artifacts in the measurement (sampling and analysis) process
[SOURCE: EN 14902:2005, 3.1.9]
2.2.3.9
field blank
blank (sample) (2.2.3.8) that is transported to the sampling site, but not used for sample collection
Note 1 to entry: A field blank is loaded in the sampler (2.2.2.1), where applicable, and returned to the laboratory
in the same way as a sample (2.2.1.1).
Note 2 to entry: The results from the analysis (2.3.1) of field blanks are used to identify contamination of the
sample arising from handling in the field and during transport.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.3.8]
2.2.3.10
laboratory blank
method blank
blank (sample) (2.2.3.8) that is not transported to the field
Note 1 to entry: The laboratory blank undergoes the same handling as the sample substrate in the laboratory,
including conditioning and placing into the samplers (2.2.2.1) or transport containers when this is done in the
laboratory.
Note 2 to entry: The results from the analysis (2.3.1) of laboratory blanks are used to correct sample results for
contamination with analyte (2.3.2) and/or interferents (2.3.6).
2.2.3.11
breakthrough volume
volume of air that can be passed through a sampler (2.2.2.1) before the gas or vapour
(2.1.2.5) exceeds the capacity of the sampler
Note 1 to entry: For practical application, see EN 1076:2009, Annex A.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.3.9, modified — “elutes from” changed to “exceeds the capacity of”.]
2.2.3.12
sampling efficiency
sampler efficiency
for each particle aerodynamic diameter (2.1.4.8), relative fraction of the concentration
of airborne particles (2.1.2.3) collected from the undisturbed air onto the collection substrate (2.2.3.7)
for analysis (2.3.1)
Note 1 to entry: The sampling efficiency is independent of whether the particle concentration is determined by
number, surface area or mass.
Note 2 to entry: As used in this definition, the word “undisturbed” applies to ideal laboratory conditions where
the presence of the sampler (2.2.2.1) and the body onto which it is mounted do not disturb the determination of
the reference concentration. The word “undisturbed” does not refer to movement of the air itself.
Note 3 to entry: For an aerosol sampler (2.2.2.1.6) with internal separation, e.g. size-selective sampling, the
sampling efficiency is the product of the inlet efficiency and the internal penetration.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.3.10, modified — Synonym “efficiency curve” deleted; “aerodynamic
diameter of a particle” changed to “particle aerodynamic diameter”; “transported” changed to
“collected”; “to the collection substrate” changed to “onto the collection substrate”; new Note 2 to entry
added; in Note 3 to entry, “a sampler” changed to “an aerosol sampler”, “separation efficiency” changed
to “internal penetration”; “e.g. size selective sampling” added.]
2.2.3.13
pressure drop
difference between ambient pressure and the pressure at the inlet of the pump, for a
constant volume flow rate setting
Note 1 to entry: The pressure drop, sometimes referred to as back pressure, is measured across the sampler
(2.2.2.1), the collection substrate (2.2.3.7) and the tubing.
[SOURCE: ISO 13137:2013, 3.9]
2.2.3.14
operating time
period during which the sampling pump can be operated at specified flow rate and pressure drop
(2.2.3.13) without recharging or replacing the battery
[SOURCE: ISO 13137:2013, 3.12, modified — “sampling” added.]
2.3 Terms related to the analytical method
2.3.1
analysis
all operations carried out after sample preparation (2.3.11) to determine the amount or concentration
of the analyte(s) (2.3.2) of interest present in the sample (2.2.1.1)
Note 1 to entry: Adapted from EN 14902:2005, 3.1.1.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 4.1]
2.3.2
analyte
substance or chemical constituent that is determined in an analytical method (2.3.3)
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 4.2]
2.3.3
analytical method
all steps of the measuring procedure (2.1.5.6) that describe the overall process of sample preparation
(2.3.11) and analysis (2.3.1)
Note 1 to entry: In the context of this International Standard, determination of mass by weighing is considered to
be an analytical method.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 4.3]
2.3.4
homologous series
series of compounds possessing similar physicochemical properties, each member of which differs from
the preceding member by addition of a repeating unit
Note 1 to entry: A common example of the repeating unit is the –CH2- methylene group.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 4.4, modified — In Note 1, “The most” changed to “A”.]
12 © ISO 2016 – All rights reserved

2.3.5
instrumental detection limit
IDL
lowest concentration at which an instrument can distinguish the presence of analyte (2.3.2) from the
background generated by a matrix, such as a reagent blank (2.3.9), having a minimal content of that analyte
[SOURCE: ISO 30011:2010, 3.2.7, modified — “analyte content” changed to “the presence of analyte”,
“minimal matrix” changed to “matrix, such as a reagent blank, having a minimal content of that analyte”
for clarity, and Note 1 to entry not included.]
2.3.6
interferent
constituent of the (air) sample (2.2.1.1) or other aspect of the sampling or analytical procedure having
an adverse effect on the accuracy of the measurement
Note 1 to entry: Interferents can include components of sampling or analysis equipment, reagents, etc.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 4.5, modified — Added “or other aspect of the sampling or analytical
procedure” and added Note 1 to entry.]
2.3.7
dynamic range
range of concentrations over which the measured analyte (2.3.2) response is suitable for the measuring
procedure (2.1.5.6)
Note 1 to entry: For example, in methods such as atomic spectrometry, the linear dynamic range extends from
the limit of quantification (2.4.3.5) to the onset of calibration curvature. See ISO 30011 for more information.
2.3.8
measurand
particular quantity subject to measurement
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 4.6]
2.3.9
reagent blank
all reagents used in sample preparation (2.3.11), in the same quantities used to prepare blank and
sample solutions
Note 1 to entry: The reagent blank is used to assess contamination from the laboratory environment and to
characterize background from the reagents used in sample preparation.
[SOURCE: ISO 30011:2010, 3.2.12, modified — Editorially improved.]
2.3.10
reference sample
sample (2.2.1.1) having a known or measured content and/or loading (2.2.3.6) of the analyte (2.3.2) of
interest
Note 1 to entry: A reference sample can be analysed to determine the analytical bias (2.4.3.1.1) or the analytical
precision (2.4.2.6) of a measuring procedure (2.1.5.6).
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 4.7, modified — “or loading” changed to “and/or loading”.]
2.3.11
sample preparation
all operations carried out on a sample (2.2.1.1), usually after transportation and storage, to prepare it
for analysis (2.3.1), including transformation of the sample into a measurable state, where necessary
Note 1 to entry: Adapted from EN 14902:2005, 3.1.24.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 4.8]
2.4 Terms related to method performance
2.4.1 Efficiency
2.4.1.1
analytical recovery
all operations carried out after sample preparation (2.3.11) to determine the amount or concentration
of the analyte(s) (2.3.2) of interest present in the collected sample (2.2.1.2)
Note 1 to entry: Adapted from EN 14902:2005, 3.1.1.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 5.1.1]
2.4.1.2
method recovery
ratio of the measured concentration of chemical agent (2.1.1.2) in air to its actual concentration
Note 1 to entry: The method recovery is usually given as a percentage.
Note 2 to entry: The method recovery incorporates both sampling efficiency (2.2.3.12) and analytical recovery
(2.4.1.1).
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 5.1.2, modified — Changed “determined” to “measured”.]
2.4.1.3
selectivity
extent of independence of a measuring procedure (2.1.5.6) from interferences
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 5.1.3]
2.4.2 Uncertainty
2.4.2.1
uncertainty of measurement
measurement error
measured quantity value (2.4.2.1.1) minus a reference quantity value (2.4.2.1.2)
Note 1 to entry: Application of the concept of measurement uncertainty is described in JCGM 200:2012.
[SOURCE: JCGM 200:2012, 2.16, modified — Only the JCGM definition is used; Note 1 to entry is added.]
2.4.2.1.1
measured quantity value
value of a measured quantity
measured value
quantity value representing a measurement result
Note 1 to entry: Additional information can be found in JCGM 200:2012.
[SOURCE: JCGM 200:2012, 2.10, modified – Only the JCGM definition is used; Note 1 to entry is added.]
2.4.2.1.2
reference quantity value
reference value
quantity value used as a basis for comparison with values of quantities of the same kind
Note 1 to entry: Additional information can be found in JCGM 200:2012.
[SOURCE: JCGM 200:2012, 5.18, modified — Only the JCGM definition is used; Note 1 to entry is added.]
14 © ISO 2016 – All rights reserved

2.4.2.1.3
non-random uncertainty
systematic measurement error
systematic error of measurement
systematic error
component of uncertainty of measurement (2.4.2.1) that, in replicate measurements, remains constant
or varies in a predictable manner
Note 1 to entry: Additional information can be found in JCGM 200:2012.
[SOURCE: JCGM 200:2012, 2.17, modified — Only the JCGM definition is used; Note 1 to entry is added.]
2.4.2.1.4
random uncertainty
random measurement error
random error of measurement
random error
uncertainty associated with random errors
Note 1 to entry: Additional information can be found in JCGM 200:2012.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 5.2.1.2, modified — Note 1 to entry added.]
2.4.2.2
analytical uncertainty
analytical error
u
a
combined uncertainty of the analytical method (2.3.3) including contributions from the analytical
recovery (2.4.1.1) and the analytical variability
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 5.2.2, modified — Synonym “analytical error” has been added and Note 1 to
entry has been moved into the definition.]
2.4.2.2.1
non-random analytical uncertainty
systematic analytical error
u
a,nr
uncertainty associated with non-random analytical error
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 5.2.2.1]
2.4.2.2.2
random analytical uncertainty
random analytical error
u
a,r
uncertainty associated with random analytical error
Note 1 to entry: The random analytical error (in some cases called “analytical variability”) is equivalent to
the analytical precision (2.4.2.6) determined under reproducibility conditions or the analytical precision
determined under repeatability conditions together with other random uncertainty components associated with
interferences, calibration, instrument response
...

SLOVENSKI STANDARD
01-marec-2018
Zrak na delovnem mestu - Terminologija
Workplace air - Terminology
Qualité de l'air - Terminologie
Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z: ISO 18158:2016
ICS:
01.040.13 Okolje. Varovanje zdravja. Environment. Health
Varnost (Slovarji) protection. Safety
(Vocabularies)
13.040.30 Kakovost zraka na delovnem Workplace atmospheres
mestu
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.

INTERNATIONAL ISO
STANDARD 18158
First edition
2016-03-01
Workplace air — Terminology
Qualité de l’air — Terminologie
Reference number
©
ISO 2016
© ISO 2016, Published in Switzerland
All rights reserved. Unless otherwise specified, no part of this publication may be reproduced or utilized otherwise in any form
or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, or posting on the internet or an intranet, without prior
written permission. Permission can be requested from either ISO at the address below or ISO’s member body in the country of
the requester.
ISO copyright office
Ch. de Blandonnet 8 • CP 401
CH-1214 Vernier, Geneva, Switzerland
Tel. [phone]
Fax [phone]
[e-mail]
www.iso.org
ii © ISO 2016 – All rights reserved

Contents Page
Foreword .iv
Introduction .v
1 Scope . 1
2 Terms and definitions . 1
2.1 General terms . 1
2.1.1 Agents . 1
2.1.2 Air pollutants . 1
2.1.3 Health-related fractions and conventions . 2
2.1.4 Aerosols . 3
2.1.5 Exposure assessment . 5
2.1.6 Other terms . 6
2.2 Terms related to the physical and chemical processes of workplace (air) sampling . 6
2.2.1 Workplace (air) sample. 6
2.2.2 Workplace (air) sampler . 7
2.2.3 Workplace (air) sampling .10
2.3 Terms related to the analytical method .12
2.4 Terms related to method performance .14
2.4.1 Efficiency .14
2.4.2 Uncertainty .14
2.4.3 General statistical terms .17
2.4.4 Other statistical terms . .19
Annex A (informative) Alphabetical index of terms defined .20
Annex B (informative) Additional terms .24
Bibliography .28
Foreword
ISO (the International Organization for Standardization) is a worldwide federation of national standards
bodies (ISO member bodies). The work of preparing International Standards is normally carried out
through ISO technical committees. Each member body interested in a subject for which a technical
committee has been established has the right to be represented on that committee. International
organizations, governmental and non-governmental, in liaison with ISO, also take part in the work.
ISO collaborates closely with the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) on all matters of
electrotechnical standardization.
The procedures used to develop this document and those intended for its further maintenance are
described in the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 1. In particular the different approval criteria needed for the
different types of ISO documents should be noted. This document was drafted in accordance with the
editorial rules of the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2 (see www.iso.org/directives).
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of
patent rights. ISO shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights. Details of
any patent rights identified during the development of the document will be in the Introduction and/or
on the ISO list of patent declarations received (see www.iso.org/patents).
Any trade name used in this document is information given for the convenience of users and does not
constitute an endorsement.
For an explanation on the meaning of ISO specific terms and expressions related to conformity
assessment, as well as information about ISO’s adherence to the WTO principles in the Technical
Barriers to Trade (TBT) see the following URL: Foreword - Supplementary information
The committee responsible for this document is ISO/TC 146, Air quality, Subcommittee SC 2, Workplace
atmospheres.
iv © ISO 2016 – All rights reserved

Introduction
The health of workers in many industries is at risk through exposure by inhalation of chemical and
biological agents. Industrial hygienists and other public health professionals need to determine the
effectiveness of measures taken to control workers’ exposure and this is generally achieved by making
workplace air measurements.
Many terms that are commonly used in relation to workplace air measurements and exposure
assessments are defined within individual standards or technical documents and are often defined
differently from one standard or document to the next. This creates ambiguities and inconsistencies
in the use of such terms. This International Standard was developed to ensure that commonly used
terms have agreed-upon definitions and to eliminate ambiguities and inconsistencies in their usage. It
will be of benefit to agencies concerned with health and safety at work, industrial hygienists and other
public health professionals, analytical laboratories, industrial users of metals and metalloids and their
workers.
INTERNATIONAL STANDARD ISO 18158:2016(E)
Workplace air — Terminology
1 Scope
This International Standard specifies terms and definitions that are related to the assessment of
workplace exposure (see 2.1.5.1) to chemical and biological agents (see 2.1.1.1). These are either
general terms or are specific to physical and chemical processes of air sampling, the analytical method
(see 2.3.3), or method performance.
The terms included are those that have been identified as being fundamental because their definition is
necessary to avoid ambiguity and ensure consistency of use.
This International Standard is applicable to all International Standards, ISO Technical Reports, ISO
Technical Specifications, and ISO Guides related to workplace atmospheres.
2 Terms and definitions
2.1 General terms
2.1.1 Agents
2.1.1.1
biological agent
one of a number of agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi and other micro-organisms or parts of them
and their associated toxins, including those which have been genetically modified, cell cultures or
endoparasites which are potentially hazardous to human health
Note 1 to entry: Dusts of organic origin, for example, cotton dust, flour dust and wood dust, are not considered to
be biological agents and are therefore not covered by this definition.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 2.1.1, modified — Added “one of a number of agents such as” to definition and
changed “pollen” to “cotton dust”.]
2.1.1.2
chemical agent
chemical element or compound on its own or admixed as it occurs in the natural state or as produced,
used, or released, including release as waste, by any work activity, whether or not produced intentionally
and whether or not placed on the market
[SOURCE: Council Directive 98/24/EC, Art. 2 a]
2.1.2 Air pollutants
2.1.2.1
air pollutant
material emitted into the atmosphere either by human activity or natural processes and adversely
affecting humans or the environment
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 2.2.1, modified — Changed “man” to “humans”.]
2.1.2.2
airborne dust
finely divided matter, in solid form, dispersed in air
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 2.2.2]
2.1.2.3
airborne particles
fine matter, in solid or liquid form, dispersed in air
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 2.2.3, modified — Note 1 to entry deleted.]
2.1.2.4
total airborne particles
airborne particles (2.1.2.3) present in a given volume of air
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 2.2.6, modified — Added “present” after “particles”.]
2.1.2.5
vapour
gas phase of a substance in a state of equilibrium or disturbed equilibrium with the same substance in
a liquid or solid state below its boiling or sublimation point
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 2.2.7]
2.1.3 Health-related fractions and conventions
2.1.3.1
health-related fractions
collective term for the fractions of airborne particles (2.1.2.3) penetrating to
different regions of the respiratory tract, i.e. the inhalable, thoracic and respirable fractions
Note 1 to entry: The health-related fractions of airborne particles are specified in ISO 7708.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 2.3.1, modified — citation in Note 1 to entry changed from EN 481 to ISO 7708.]
2.1.3.1.1
inhalable fraction
mass fraction of total airborne particles (2.1.2.4) which is inhaled through the nose and mouth
Note 1 to entry: The inhalable fraction depends on the speed and direction of the air movement, on the rate of
breathing and other factors.
[SOURCE: ISO 7708:1995, 2.3]
2.1.3.1.2
extrathoracic fraction
mass fraction of total airborne particles (2.1.2.4) which fail to penetrate beyond the larynx
[SOURCE: ISO 7708:1995, 2.5, modified]
2.1.3.1.3
thoracic fraction
mass fraction of total airborne particles (2.1.2.4) which penetrate beyond the larynx
[SOURCE: ISO 7708:1995, 2.7, modified]
2.1.3.1.4
respirable fraction
mass fraction of total airborne particles (2.1.2.4) which penetrate to the unciliated airways
[SOURCE: ISO 7708:1995, 2.11, modified]
2.1.3.2
sampling convention
target specification for sampling instruments for a specified airborne particulate fraction
2 © ISO 2016 – All rights reserved

2.1.3.2.1
inhalable convention
target specification for sampling instruments when the inhalable fraction (2.1.3.1.1) is the fraction of
interest
[SOURCE: ISO 7708:1995, 2.4]
2.1.3.2.2
extrathoracic convention
target specification for sampling instruments when the extrathoracic fraction (2.1.3.1.2) is the fraction
of interest
[SOURCE: ISO 7708:1995, 2.6, modified — “the fraction” added before “of interest” for consistency of
wording.]
2.1.3.2.3
thoracic convention
target specification for sampling instruments when the thoracic fraction (2.1.3.1.3) is the fraction of
interest
[SOURCE: ISO 7708:1995, 2.8, modified — “the fraction” added before “of interest” for consistency of
wording.]
2.1.3.2.4
respirable convention
target specification for sampling instruments when the respirable fraction (2.1.3.1.4) is the fraction of
interest
[SOURCE: ISO 7708:1995, 2.12, modified — “the fraction” added before “of interest” for consistency of
wording.]
2.1.4 Aerosols
2.1.4.1
aerosol
airborne particles (2.1.2.3) and the gas (and vapour) mixture in which they are suspended
Note 1 to entry: The airborne particles can be in or out of equilibrium with their own vapours (2.1.2.5).
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 2.2.4]
2.1.4.2
bioaerosol
aerosol (2.1.4.1) consisting of (a) biological agent(s) (2.1.1.1)
Note 1 to entry: Airborne dusts (2.1.2.2) of organic origin, for example, cotton dust, flour dust and wood dust, are
not considered to be bioaerosols and are therefore not covered by this definition.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 2.2.5, modified — “pollen” changed to “cotton dust” in Note 1 to entry.]
2.1.4.3
nanoaerosol
aerosol (2.1.4.1) comprised of, or consisting of, nanoparticles (2.1.4.4) and nanostructured particles
(2.1.4.5)
[SOURCE: ISO/TR 27628:2007, 2.11]
2.1.4.4
nanoparticle
material with all three dimensions in the size range from approximately 1 nm to 100 nm
[SOURCE: ISO/TS 80004-4:2011, 2.1, 2.2, and 2.4, modified]
2.1.4.5
nanostructured particle
particle with structural features smaller than 100 nm, which can influence its physical, chemical and/or
biological properties
Note 1 to entry: A nanostructured particle can have a maximum dimension substantially larger than 100 nm.
EXAMPLE A 500 nm diameter agglomerate (2.1.4.9) of nanoparticles (2.1.4.4) would be considered a
nanostructured particle.
[SOURCE: ISO/TR 27628:2007, 2.13, modified — “may” changed to “can” in definition and Note 1 to entry.]
2.1.4.6
ultrafine aerosol
aerosol (2.1.4.1) consisting predominantly of ultrafine particles (2.1.4.7)
Note 1 to entry: The term is often used in the context of particles produced as a by-product of a process (incidental
particles), such as welding fume (B.2.2) and combustion fume
[SOURCE: ISO/TR 27628:2007, 2.20]
2.1.4.7
ultrafine particle
particle with a nominal diameter (such as geometric, aerodynamic, mobility, projected-area or
otherwise) of 100 nm or less, produced as a by-product of a process such as welding and combustion
[SOURCE: ISO/TR 27628:2007, 2.21, modified — Note 1 to entry moved to definition text.]
2.1.4.8
particle aerodynamic diameter
aerodynamic diameter
-3
diameter of a sphere of 1 g cm density with the same terminal settling velocity in calm air as the
particle, under the prevailing conditions of temperature, pressure and relative humidity
Note 1 to entry: The particle aerodynamic diameter depends on the size, density and shape of the particle.
Note 2 to entry: Aerodynamic diameter is related to the inertial properties of aerosol particles.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 2.3.2, modified — Note 2 to entry derived from ISO/TR 27628:2007, 2.2.]
2.1.4.9
agglomerate
group of particles held together by relatively weak forces, including van der Waals forces,
electrostatic forces and surface tension
[SOURCE: ISO/TR 27628:2007, 2.4 modified — Note 1 to entry deleted.]
2.1.4.10
aggregate
heterogeneous particle in which the various components are held together by relatively
strong forces and thus not easily broken apart
[SOURCE: ISO/TR 27628:2007, 2.5, modified – Note 1 to entry deleted.]
2.1.4.11
coagulation
formation of larger particles through the collision and subsequent adhesion of smaller particles
[SOURCE: ISO/TR 27628:2007, 2.6]
4 © ISO 2016 – All rights reserved

2.1.4.12
coalescence
formation of homogeneous particles through the collision of smaller liquid particles and subsequent
merging or mixing of constituent material
[SOURCE: ISO/TR 27628:2007, 2.7, modified — “liquid” added.]
2.1.5 Exposure assessment
2.1.5.1
exposure
situation in which a chemical agent (2.1.1.2) or biological agent (2.1.1.1) is present in the
air that is inhaled by a person
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 2.4.1, modified — “agent” added after “chemical” to facilitate cross-
referencing.]
2.1.5.2
dermal exposure
contact between a chemical agent (2.1.1.2) or biological agent (2.1.1.1) and human skin
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 2.4.2]
2.1.5.3
time-weighted average concentration
TWA concentration
concentration of a chemical agent (2.1.1.2) in the air, averaged over a reference period (2.1.5.7)
[SOURCE: ISO 21438-1:2007, 3.1.7, modified — Replaced “atmosphere” with “air”.]
2.1.5.4
occupational exposure limit value
OELV
limit of the time-weighted average of the concentration of a chemical agent (2.1.1.2) in the air within the
breathing zone (2.1.5.5) of a worker in relation to a specified reference period (2.1.5.7)
Note 1 to entry: The term “limit value” is often used as a synonym for “occupational exposure limit value” but the
term “occupational exposure limit value” is preferred because there is more than one limit value (e.g. biological
limit value and occupational exposure limit value).
Note 2 to entry: Occupational exposure limit values (OELVs) are often set for reference periods of 8 h but can also
be set for shorter periods or concentration excursions. OELVs for gases and vapours (2.1.2.5) are stated in terms
independent of temperature and air pressure variables in ml/m³ and in terms dependent on those variables
in mg/m³ for a temperature of 20 °C and a pressure of 101,3 kPa. OELVs for airborne particles (2.1.2.3) and
mixtures of particles and vapours are given in mg/m³ or multiples of that for actual environmental conditions
(temperature, pressure) at the workplace (2.1.6.2). OELVs of fibres are given in number of fibres/m³ or number of
fibres/cm³ for actual environmental conditions (temperature, pressure) at the workplace.
[SOURCE: Council Directive 98/24/EC, Art. 2 d, modified — “OELV” and new Note 1 to entry added;
original Note 1 becomes Note 2; “limit value” changed to “occupational exposure limit value” or “OELV”
in Note 2 to entry; “mostly” changed to “often” in first sentence of Note 2 to entry.]
2.1.5.5
breathing zone
space around the nose and mouth from which breath is taken
Note 1 to entry: Technically, the breathing zone corresponds to a hemisphere (generally accepted to be 30 cm
in radius) extending in front of the human face, centred on the midpoint of a line joining the ears. The base of
the hemisphere is a plane through this line, the top of the head and the larynx. This technical description is not
applicable when respiratory protective equipment is used.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 2.4.5]
2.1.5.6
measuring procedure
measurement procedure
measurement method
set of operations described specifically for the sampling and analysis (2.3.1) of chemical agents (2.1.1.2)
or biological agents (2.1.1.1) in air
Note 1 to entry: A measuring procedure usually includes preparation for sampling, conducting the sampling,
transportation and storage, and sample preparation (2.3.11) for analysis and conducting the analysis.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 2.4.6, modified — “agents” added after “chemical” to facilitate cross-
referencing and Note 1 to entry editorially modified.]
2.1.5.7
reference period
specified period of time for which the occupational exposure limit value (2.1.5.4) of a chemical
agent (2.1.1.2) or biological agent (2.1.1.1) applies
Note 1 to entry: The reference period is usually 8 h for long-term measurements and 15 min for short-term
measurements.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 2.4.7, modified — “agent” added after “chemical” to facilitate cross-
referencing.]
2.1.6 Other terms
2.1.6.1
dustiness
propensity of materials to produce airborne dust (2.1.2.2) during handling
Note 1 to entry: Dustiness is not an intrinsic property as it depends on how it is measured.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 2.5.1]
2.1.6.2
workplace
designated area or areas in which the work activities are carried out
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 2.5.2]
2.2 Terms related to the physical and chemical processes of workplace (air) sampling
2.2.1 Workplace (air) sample
2.2.1.1
sample
air sample
product of the process of (air) sampling (2.2.3.1)
Note 1 to entry: An air sample is frequently considered to include the collection substrate(s) (2.2.3.7) as well as
the collected chemical agents (2.1.1.2) and/or biological agents (2.1.1.1) or sometimes it is considered to be the
fractional part of a larger volume of air.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.1.1, modified — “” added as the domain for the
definition. In Note 1 to entry, “agents” added after “chemical” to facilitate cross-referencing.]
6 © ISO 2016 – All rights reserved

2.2.1.2
collected sample
product of the process of (air) sampling (2.2.3.1) that consists of the collected chemical agents (2.1.1.2)
and/or biological agents (2.1.1.1) only
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.1.2, modified — “Agents” added after “chemical” to facilitate cross-
referencing.]
2.2.1.3
personal sample
product of the process of using a sampler (2.2.2.1), attached to a person, to collect gases, vapours
(2.1.2.5), and/or airborne particles (2.1.2.3) in the breathing zone (2.1.5.5) for the purpose of measuring
exposure (2.1.5.1) to chemical agents (2.1.1.2) and/or biological agents (2.1.1.1)
2.2.1.4
static sample
area sample
product of using a sampler (2.2.2.1) in a stationary location that collects gases, vapours (2.1.2.5) and/or
airborne particles (2.1.2.3) for the purpose of measuring exposure (2.1.5.1) to chemical agents (2.1.1.2)
and/or biological agents (2.1.1.1)
2.2.2 Workplace (air) sampler
2.2.2.1
sampler
air sampler
device for separating and/or collecting chemical agents (2.1.1.2) and/or
biological agents (2.1.1.1) from the surrounding air
Note 1 to entry: (Air) samplers are generally designed for a particular purpose, e.g. for sampling gases and
vapours (2.1.2.5) or for sampling airborne particles.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.2.1, modified — “” added as the domain for the
definition. “Separating” changed to “separating and/or collecting”. “Agents” added after “chemical” to
facilitate cross-referencing.]
2.2.2.1.1
passive sampler
sampler (2.2.2.1) that collects gases, vapours (2.1.2.5) or airborne particles (2.1.2.3) on a collection
substrate (2.2.3.7) without active air movement
Note 1 to entry: Passive samplers include diffusive samplers (2.2.2.1.2) for collection of gases and vapours
and samplers for collection of airborne particles based on turbulent diffusion and separation by electrical or
other forces.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.2.1.1]
2.2.2.1.2
diffusive sampler
passive sampler (2.2.2.1.1) that collects gases or vapours (2.1.2.5) at a rate governed by diffusion through
a static air layer and/or permeation through a membrane
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.2.1.2, modified — Reference to airborne particles deleted and “a physical
process such as” deleted.]
2.2.2.1.3
active sampler
sampler (2.2.2.1) that collects gases, vapours (2.1.2.5) or airborne particles (2.1.2.3), by means of active
air movement
Note 1 to entry: Active samplers can collect samples (2.2.1.1) onto a collection substrate (2.2.3.7) such as a filter or
a sorbent tube (2.2.2.5) or can collect samples into a canister or bag.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.2.1.3, modified — The phrase “on a collection substrate” was deleted from
the definition and Note 1 to entry was added.]
2.2.2.1.4
pumped sampler
active sampler (2.2.2.1.3) that collects gases, vapours (2.1.2.5) or airborne particles (2.1.2.3) where the
active air movement is induced by means of a pump
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.2.1.4, modified — The phrase “on a collection substrate” was deleted from
the definition and Note 1 to entry was deleted.]
2.2.2.1.5
flow-controlled pump
pump with nominally constant flow rate provided by an automatic flow control system
[SOURCE: ISO 13137:2013, 3.10]
2.2.2.1.6
aerosol sampler
airborne particle sampler
airborne particulate sampler
device that is used to collect airborne particles (2.1.2.3)
Note 1 to entry: The term aerosol sampler is commonly used although it is not in line with the definition of aerosol
given in aerosol (2.1.4.1).
Note 2 to entry: The collection of airborne particles can be either active or passive.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.2.1.5, modified — Synonym format modified in accordance with
ISO 10241-1:2011. “Sampler” changed to “device” and “transport” changed to “collect” in definition. The
phrase “to a collection substrate” was deleted from definition. Cross-reference in Note 1 to entry was
modified and Note 2 to entry was modified.]
2.2.2.1.6.1
inhalable sampler
aerosol sampler (2.2.2.1.6) that is used to collect the inhalable fraction (2.1.3.1.1) of airborne particles
from the surrounding air
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.2.1.5.1, modified — “Of airborne particles from the surrounding air”
was added.]
2.2.2.1.6.2
thoracic sampler
aerosol sampler (2.2.2.1.6) that is used to collect the thoracic fraction (2.1.3.1.3) of airborne particles
from the surrounding air
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.2.1.5.2, modified — “Of airborne particles from the surrounding air”
was added.]
8 © ISO 2016 – All rights reserved

2.2.2.1.6.3
respirable sampler
aerosol sampler (2.2.2.1.6) that is used to collect the respirable fraction (2.1.3.1.4) of airborne particles
from the surrounding air
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.2.1.5.3, modified — “Of airborne particles from the surrounding air”
was added.]
2.2.2.1.7
mixed-phase sampler
sampler (2.2.2.1) or sampling train (2.2.2.6) that is used to collect airborne particles (2.1.2.3) and vapours
(2.1.2.5) onto one or more collection substrates (2.2.3.7)
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.2.1.6, modified — “Transport” changed to “collect.” “To one or more”
changed to “Onto one or more”.]
2.2.2.2
personal sampler
sampler (2.2.2.1), attached to a person, that collects gases, vapours (2.1.2.5) or airborne particles
(2.1.2.3) in the breathing zone (2.1.5.5) for the purpose of measuring exposure (2.1.5.1) to chemical
agents (2.1.1.2) and/or biological agents (2.1.1.1)
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.2.2, modified — “To determine” changed to “for the purpose of measuring”
and “agents” added after “chemical” to facilitate cross-referencing.]
2.2.2.3
static sampler
area sampler
stationary sampler (2.2.2.1), not attached to a person, that collects gases, vapours (2.1.2.5) or airborne
particles (2.1.2.3) at a particular location
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.2.3, modified — “Stationary” was added to the definition.]
2.2.2.4
length-of-stain detector tube
glass tube containing chemical reagents in which a colour change is produced on a graduated scale,
based on concentration of a specific chemical agent (2.1.1.2), when a sample (2.2.1.1) is drawn through it
2.2.2.5
sorbent tube
sampling device, usually made of metal or glass, containing a collection substrate (2.2.3.7) such as a
sorbent (B.3.3) or a support impregnated with reagent, through which sampled air passes
Note 1 to entry: Some sorbent tubes are intended for use as active samplers (2.2.2.1.3) and some as passive
samplers (2.2.2.1.1).
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.2.5, modified — “Sampling” and “through which sampled air passes” were
added to the definition.]
2.2.2.6
sampling train
apparatus consisting of one or more (air) samplers (2.2.2.1) connected in series, along with associated
sampling equipment and connecting tubing, used to collect one or more chemical agents (2.1.1.2)
2.2.3 Workplace (air) sampling
2.2.3.1
sampling
air sampling
process consisting of the collection of chemical agents (2.1.1.2) and/or biological
agents (2.1.1.1) from air or the withdrawal or isolation of a fractional part of a larger volume of air
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.3.1, modified — “” was added as the domain for the
definition. “Separation” was changed to “collection.” “Onto a collection substrate” was deleted. “Agents”
was added after “chemical” to facilitate cross-referencing.]
2.2.3.2
sampling method
air sampling method
all steps of the measuring procedure (2.1.5.6) that describe the physical process
of (air) sampling (2.2.3.1)
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.3.2, modified — “” added as the domain for the
definition.]
2.2.3.3
personal sampling
process of using a sampler (2.2.2.1), attached to a person, to collect gases, vapours (2.1.2.5) or airborne
particles (2.1.2.3) in the breathing zone (2.1.5.5) for the purpose of measuring exposure (2.1.5.1) to
chemical agents (2.1.1.2) and/or biological agents (2.1.1.1)
2.2.3.4
static sampling
area sampling
process of using a sampler (2.2.2.1) in a stationary location that collects gases, vapours (2.1.2.5) or
airborne particles (2.1.2.3) for the purpose of measuring exposure (2.1.5.1) to chemical agents (2.1.1.2)
and/or biological agents (2.1.1.1)
2.2.3.5
loading
amount of sample (2.2.1.1) collected
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.3.5, modified — definition pertaining to is in loading (2.2.3.6) and
“on the collection substrate” changed to “collected”.]
2.2.3.6
loading
amount of analyte (2.3.2) collected
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.3.5, modified — definition pertaining to (sample) is in loading (2.2.3.5) and
“on the collection substrate” changed to “collected”]
2.2.3.7
collection substrate
sampling substrate
collection medium
sampling medium
medium on which airborne chemical agents (2.1.1.2) and/or biological agents (2.1.1.1) are collected for
subsequent analysis (2.3.1)
Note 1 to entry: Filters, polyurethane foams, impinger solutions and sampling cassettes are examples of collection
substrates for airborne particles (2.1.2.3).
Note 2 to entry: Activated carbon, silica gel and reagent impregnated filters are examples of collection substrates
(2.2.3.7) for gases and vapours (2.1.2.5).
10 © ISO 2016 – All rights reserved

Note 3 to entry: Agar and water media are examples of collection substrates for bioaerosols (2.1.4.2).
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.3.6, modified — In Note 1 to entry, “impinger solutions” added; in Note 3 to
entry, “and water” added; “agents” added after “chemical” to facilitate cross-referencing.]
2.2.3.8
blank (sample)
unused collection substrate (2.2.3.7), taken from the same batch used for sampling (2.2.3.1), processed
so as to measure artifacts in the measurement (sampling and analysis) process
[SOURCE: EN 14902:2005, 3.1.9]
2.2.3.9
field blank
blank (sample) (2.2.3.8) that is transported to the sampling site, but not used for sample collection
Note 1 to entry: A field blank is loaded in the sampler (2.2.2.1), where applicable, and returned to the laboratory
in the same way as a sample (2.2.1.1).
Note 2 to entry: The results from the analysis (2.3.1) of field blanks are used to identify contamination of the
sample arising from handling in the field and during transport.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.3.8]
2.2.3.10
laboratory blank
method blank
blank (sample) (2.2.3.8) that is not transported to the field
Note 1 to entry: The laboratory blank undergoes the same handling as the sample substrate in the laboratory,
including conditioning and placing into the samplers (2.2.2.1) or transport containers when this is done in the
laboratory.
Note 2 to entry: The results from the analysis (2.3.1) of laboratory blanks are used to correct sample results for
contamination with analyte (2.3.2) and/or interferents (2.3.6).
2.2.3.11
breakthrough volume
volume of air that can be passed through a sampler (2.2.2.1) before the gas or vapour
(2.1.2.5) exceeds the capacity of the sampler
Note 1 to entry: For practical application, see EN 1076:2009, Annex A.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.3.9, modified — “elutes from” changed to “exceeds the capacity of”.]
2.2.3.12
sampling efficiency
sampler efficiency
for each particle aerodynamic diameter (2.1.4.8), relative fraction of the concentration
of airborne particles (2.1.2.3) collected from the undisturbed air onto the collection substrate (2.2.3.7)
for analysis (2.3.1)
Note 1 to entry: The sampling efficiency is independent of whether the particle concentration is determined by
number, surface area or mass.
Note 2 to entry: As used in this definition, the word “undisturbed” applies to ideal laboratory conditions where
the presence of the sampler (2.2.2.1) and the body onto which it is mounted do not disturb the determination of
the reference concentration. The word “undisturbed” does not refer to movement of the air itself.
Note 3 to entry: For an aerosol sampler (2.2.2.1.6) with internal separation, e.g. size-selective sampling, the
sampling efficiency is the product of the inlet efficiency and the internal penetration.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 3.3.10, modified — Synonym “efficiency curve” deleted; “aerodynamic
diameter of a particle” changed to “particle aerodynamic diameter”; “transported” changed to
“collected”; “to the collection substrate” changed to “onto the collection substrate”; new Note 2 to entry
added; in Note 3 to entry, “a sampler” changed to “an aerosol sampler”, “separation efficiency” changed
to “internal penetration”; “e.g. size selective sampling” added.]
2.2.3.13
pressure drop
difference between ambient pressure and the pressure at the inlet of the pump, for a
constant volume flow rate setting
Note 1 to entry: The pressure drop, sometimes referred to as back pressure, is measured across the sampler
(2.2.2.1), the collection substrate (2.2.3.7) and the tubing.
[SOURCE: ISO 13137:2013, 3.9]
2.2.3.14
operating time
period during which the sampling pump can be operated at specified flow rate and pressure drop
(2.2.3.13) without recharging or replacing the battery
[SOURCE: ISO 13137:2013, 3.12, modified — “sampling” added.]
2.3 Terms related to the analytical method
2.3.1
analysis
all operations carried out after sample preparation (2.3.11) to determine the amount or concentration
of the analyte(s) (2.3.2) of interest present in the sample (2.2.1.1)
Note 1 to entry: Adapted from EN 14902:2005, 3.1.1.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 4.1]
2.3.2
analyte
substance or chemical constituent that is determined in an analytical method (2.3.3)
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 4.2]
2.3.3
analytical method
all steps of the measuring procedure (2.1.5.6) that describe the overall process of sample preparation
(2.3.11) and analysis (2.3.1)
Note 1 to entry: In the context of this International Standard, determination of mass by weighing is considered to
be an analytical method.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 4.3]
2.3.4
homologous series
series of compounds possessing similar physicochemical properties, each member of which differs from
the preceding member by addition of a repeating unit
Note 1 to entry: A common example of the repeating unit is the –CH2- methylene group.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 4.4, modified — In Note 1, “The most” changed to “A”.]
12 © ISO 2016 – All rights reserved

2.3.5
instrumental detection limit
IDL
lowest concentration at which an instrument can distinguish the presence of analyte (2.3.2) from the
background generated by a matrix, such as a reagent blank (2.3.9), having a minimal content of that analyte
[SOURCE: ISO 30011:2010, 3.2.7, modified — “analyte content” changed to “the presence of analyte”,
“minimal matrix” changed to “matrix, such as a reagent blank, having a minimal content of that analyte”
for clarity, and Note 1 to entry not included.]
2.3.6
interferent
constituent of the (air) sample (2.2.1.1) or other aspect of the sampling or analytical procedure having
an adverse effect on the accuracy of the measurement
Note 1 to entry: Interferents can include components of sampling or analysis equipment, reagents, etc.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 4.5, modified — Added “or other aspect of the sampling or analytical
procedure” and added Note 1 to entry.]
2.3.7
dynamic range
range of concentrations over which the measured analyte (2.3.2) response is suitable for the measuring
procedure (2.1.5.6)
Note 1 to entry: For example, in methods such as atomic spectrometry, the linear dynamic range extends from
the limit of quantification (2.4.3.5) to the onset of calibration curvature. See ISO 30011 for more information.
2.3.8
measurand
particular quantity subject to measurement
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 4.6]
2.3.9
reagent blank
all reagents used in sample preparation (2.3.11), in the same quantities used to prepare blank and
sample solutions
Note 1 to entry: The reagent blank is used to assess contamination from the laboratory environment and to
characterize background from the reagents used in sample preparation.
[SOURCE: ISO 30011:2010, 3.2.12, modified — Editorially improved.]
2.3.10
reference sample
sample (2.2.1.1) having a known or measured content and/or loading (2.2.3.6) of the analyte (2.3.2) of
interest
Note 1 to entry: A reference sample can be analysed to determine the analytical bias (2.4.3.1.1) or the analytical
precision (2.4.2.6) of a measuring procedure (2.1.5.6).
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 4.7, modified — “or loading” changed to “and/or loading”.]
2.3.11
sample preparation
all operations carried out on a sample (2.2.1.1), usually after transportation and storage, to prepare it
for analysis (2.3.1), including transformation of the sample into a measurable state, where necessary
Note 1 to entry: Adapted from EN 14902:2005, 3.1.24.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 4.8]
2.4 Terms related to method performance
2.4.1 Efficiency
2.4.1.1
analytical recovery
all operations carried out after sample preparation (2.3.11) to determine the amount or concentration
of the analyte(s) (2.3.2) of interest present in the collected sample (2.2.1.2)
Note 1 to entry: Adapted from EN 14902:2005, 3.1.1.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 5.1.1]
2.4.1.2
method recovery
ratio of the measured concentration of chemical agent (2.1.1.2) in air to its actual concentration
Note 1 to entry: The method recovery is usually given as a percentage.
Note 2 to entry: The method recovery incorporates both sampling efficiency (2.2.3.12) and analytical recovery
(2.4.1.1).
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 5.1.2, modified — Changed “determined” to “measured”.]
2.4.1.3
selectivity
extent of independence of a measuring procedure (2.1.5.6) from interferences
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 5.1.3]
2.4.2 Uncertainty
2.4.2.1
uncertainty of measurement
measurement error
measured quantity value (2.4.2.1.1) minus a reference quantity value (2.4.2.1.2)
Note 1 to entry: Application of the concept of measurement uncertainty is described in JCGM 200:2012.
[SOURCE: JCGM 200:2012, 2.16, modified — Only the JCGM definition is used; Note 1 to entry is added.]
2.4.2.1.1
measured quantity value
value of a measured quantity
measured value
quantity value representing a measurement result
Note 1 to entry: Additional information can be found in JCGM 200:2012.
[SOURCE: JCGM 200:2012, 2.10, modified – Only the JCGM definition is used; Note 1 to entry is added.]
2.4.2.1.2
reference quantity value
reference value
quantity value used as a basis for comparison with values of quantities of the same kind
Note 1 to entry: Additional information can be found in JCGM 200:2012.
[SOURCE: JCGM 200:2012, 5.18, modified — Only the JCGM definition is used; Note 1 to entry is added.]
14 © ISO 2016 – All rights reserved

2.4.2.1.3
non-random uncertainty
systematic measurement error
systematic error of measurement
systematic error
component of uncertainty of measurement (2.4.2.1) that, in replicate measurements, remains constant
or varies in a predictable manner
Note 1 to entry: Additional information can be found in JCGM 200:2012.
[SOURCE: JCGM 200:2012, 2.17, modified — Only the JCGM definition is used; Note 1 to entry is added.]
2.4.2.1.4
random uncertainty
random measurement error
random error of measurement
random error
uncertainty associated with random errors
Note 1 to entry: Additional information can be found in JCGM 200:2012.
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 5.2.1.2, modified — Note 1 to entry added.]
2.4.2.2
analytical uncertainty
analytical error
u
a
combined uncertainty of the analytical method (2.3.3) including contributions from the analytical
recovery (2.4.1.1) and the analytical variability
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 5.2.2, modified — Synonym “analytical error” has been added and Note 1 to
entry has been moved into the definition.]
2.4.2.2.1
non-random analytical uncertainty
systematic analytical error
u
a,nr
uncertainty associated with non-random analytical error
[SOURCE: EN 1540:2011, 5.2.2.1]
2.4.2.2.2
random analytical uncertainty
random analytical error
u
a,r
uncertainty associated with random analytical error
Note 1 to entry: The random analytical error (in some cases called “analytical variability”) is equivalent to
the analytical precision (2.4.2.6) determined under reproducibility conditions or the analytical precision
determined under repeatability conditions together with other random uncertainty components associated with
interferences, calibration, instrument response drift, blank correct
...