What is the NIOSH method 7400 used for?

NIOSH method 7400 is specifically designed for the analysis of asbestos and other fibers using polarized light microscopy (PCM). This method is essential in occupational health and safety since asbestos exposure can pose significant health risks, including respiratory diseases and cancers such as mesothelioma. By employing this particular analytical technique, industrial hygienists can quantify the presence of asbestos fibers in air samples and bulk materials, thereby evaluating exposure levels in various environments, particularly those related to construction, demolition, and maintenance activities where asbestos may be disturbed.

The use of PCM helps in identifying and quantifying different types of fibers, ensuring that safety regulations and exposure limits are adhered to in workplaces. It is a critical tool in the field of occupational hygiene to protect workers from hazardous exposures. The other options involve different methods and techniques aimed at other occupational health concerns, but they do not pertain to the specific analysis of asbestos fibers as NIOSH 7400 does.