What is the main purpose of bulk sampling?

The main purpose of bulk sampling is to identify and quantify physical materials. This technique involves taking samples of various materials in a workplace environment, such as dust, soils, or building materials, to analyze them for hazardous substances or contaminants. By collecting bulk samples, occupational hygienists can determine the composition and potential risks associated with these materials, which is crucial for assessing health and safety in the workplace.

In contrast, quantifying airborne contaminants focuses specifically on the measurement of pollutants present in the air, which does not encompass the broader scope of physical materials that bulk sampling addresses. Measuring temperature and humidity levels is a separate aspect of environmental monitoring, often related to comfort or systemic health effects, but it is not the goal of bulk sampling. Assessing worker complaints pertains to evaluating reported experiences or concerns, rather than the systematic characterization of physical materials. Thus, the emphasis on identifying and quantifying physical materials clearly aligns with the purpose of bulk sampling.