RCA Laboratories (Environmental) currently provides services to coal mines in NSW. Environmental monitoring for these sites includes the operation of a site based weather station, depositional dust monitoring, High Volume Air Sampling, surface water sampling, groundwater sampling and environmental noise monitoring.
Ambient Air Quality Monitoring
RCA currently undertakes ambient air quality monitoring in the suburb of Mayfield, NSW for client works associated with the re-development of the former BHP Steelworks site. This monitoring incorporates the real time recording of Total Suspended Particulates (TSP) and Particulate Matter <10µm (PM10) utilising Beta Attenuation Monitors. In addition to the real time monitoring, High Volume Air Samplers (HVAS) are also used to monitor TSP and PM10 particulate matter on a six day run cycle in accordance with the DECCW EPA schedule. In conjunction, a PUF High Volume Air Sampler containing a Polyurethane filter is also utilised to sample Volatile Organic Carbon constituents including Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) and Phenols.
The BTEX component of the Volatile Organic Carbon monitoring is undertaken using Charcoal Sorbent Tubes attached to a low flow sampling pump. In addition to the Particulate and Volatile Organic Carbon monitoring equipment, a depositional dust gauge is also utilised to monitor the total depositional dust fallout in the Mayfield area.
When analysed in conjunction with local weather station data the real time particulate matter concentrations, weekly particulate matter and volatile Organic Carbon concentrations, and the monthly depositional dust concentrations provide an overall picture of the air quality dynamics of the Mayfield area.
MAINTAIN THE HIGHEST STANDARDS IN YOUR WORKPLACE
Occupational hygiene monitoring allows for the safe management of environmental conditions that can cause harm to employees and the general public. RCA has extensive experience in reducing operational risk. Material and substance safety assessments identify the health hazards including airborne materials, such as asbestos and chemicals that can harm humans.
RCA has been working with the State Transit Authority to assess risk and improve the occupational environment for bus inspectors and maintenance crews at sites across Sydney and Newcastle. RCA occupational hygienists have recently performed workplace monitoring programmes for diesel exhaust particulate, diesel and paint vapour and noise exposure during which employees wore monitoring equipment and work practices were reviewed. It is hoped that this project will lead to an ongoing mutually beneficial relationship with this critical part of the NSW State Government public transport infrastructure.
