If sampling costs are considered too high, what is the recommended action?

Focusing on controls and repairs instead of costly sampling is recommended when sampling costs are deemed too high because this approach addresses immediate health and safety concerns without incurring additional costs associated with extensive sampling. Prioritizing controls means taking proactive measures to mitigate exposure to hazards, which can often yield more effective outcomes in protecting worker health.

By emphasizing controls and repairs, organizations can implement practical solutions, such as improving ventilation, upgrading equipment, or training employees, that may enhance workplace safety in tangible ways. This approach allows for resource allocation towards solutions that can provide immediate relief from exposure issues, thereby fostering a safer work environment even while sampling efforts are limited.

The other options, while they may seem viable, do not provide the same immediate attention to risk management as focusing on controls does. Investigating alternative sampling methods may lead to savings, but it doesn't address existing hazards directly. Delaying the assessment until funding is available could prolong potential exposure risks, and conducting sampling in just one area may result in an incomplete understanding of workplace conditions. Hence, prioritizing controls and repairs can be a more effective and immediate action in managing occupational hygiene concerns.