At Biological Monitoring, we deliver compliant, evidence-based exposure testing programmes for employers across the UK operating in environments where hazardous substances pose a risk to employee health.

Our biological monitoring services are designed to measure internal absorption of chemicals, track exposure over time, and support employers in meeting COSHH and workplace safety obligations.

Whether you’re overseeing a lab, manufacturing line, chemical processing facility, or industrial site, we tailor each programme to match your operational hazards and regulatory duties.

Why Is Biological Monitoring Critical for Workplaces?

Employers have a legal responsibility to conduct biological monitoring under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) when exposure to harmful agents cannot be fully eliminated.

Biological testing helps identify chemical uptake through inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact—flagging early signs of risk before adverse health effects develop. It’s essential in environments where airborne concentrations fluctuate or PPE effectiveness varies.

What Types of Tests Are Included in a Biological Monitoring Programme?

A biological monitoring programme may include the following tests, depending on the substances used in your workplace:

• Urine sampling – Detects exposure to substances such as isocyanates, lead, and mercury.
• Blood analysis – Measures chemical absorption, including solvents, metals, and other organics.
• Exhaled breath testing – Assesses volatile compound exposure in real time.
• Skin swabs or patch tests – Evaluate dermal absorption risk.
• Biomarker tracking – Identifies indicators of cumulative or acute chemical effects.
• Trend analysis reporting – Monitors exposure patterns over time.
• Fitness-for-exposure summaries – Reports provided to employers without revealing clinical details.

How Much Does Biological Monitoring Cost?

Biological monitoring costs range from £60 to £150 per employee annually.

The price depends on the testing frequency, substances involved, and whether sampling is done on-site or in a clinic.

Factors influencing price include the number of participants, required laboratory tests, type of chemicals monitored, and integration with broader health surveillance.

Contact Biological Monitoring to receive tailored pricing for your workforce exposure monitoring programme.

How Often Should Employees Be Tested Through Biological Monitoring?

Some testing may be required before exposure begins (baseline), followed by periodic checks—typically every 6 to 12 months.

High-risk environments or substances with rapid absorption rates may require more frequent reviews. Monitoring may also be triggered by accidental exposure, new processes, or reported symptoms.

What Exposure Risks Trigger Biological Monitoring Requirements?

Biological monitoring is typically required in response to:

• Isocyanate use – Common in spray painting and foam applications, linked to occupational asthma.
• Lead handling – Exposure in battery production, construction, or smelting environments.
• Solvent use – Organic vapour exposure in degreasing, printing, or painting.
• Metalworking fluids – Risk of respiratory and skin absorption in machining environments.
• Pesticides or herbicides – Agricultural use requiring internal exposure assessment.
• Reported health symptoms – Trigger further testing to confirm or rule out substance uptake.

Can On-Site Biological Monitoring Be Arranged for Large Projects?

We provide mobile biological monitoring services, making it easy to conduct sampling across large-scale or remote operations without affecting productivity.

Our mobile teams are fully equipped with collection tools, refrigeration units, and documentation to maintain sample integrity.

Ideal for manufacturing hubs, chemical facilities, field operations, and logistics networks where multiple employees require on-shift sampling under hygienic and confidential conditions.

Are Biological Monitoring Services Compliant With HSE and COSHH Regulations?

All biological monitoring services provided are aligned with HSE, COSHH, and FOM standards.

We use accredited laboratories, follow chain-of-custody protocols, and employ qualified occupational health professionals to interpret results.

Data is stored securely in line with GDPR and occupational health regulations, with full audit support and clear documentation available for inspections or insurance purposes.

Which Industries Within Area Require Biological Monitoring?

Industries commonly requiring biological monitoring include:

• Chemical manufacturing – For solvent, heavy metal, and gas exposure.
• Automotive and aerospace – Isocyanate and paint-related monitoring.
• Engineering and metalwork – Monitoring for lead, cadmium, and cutting fluids.
• Agriculture and pest control – Pesticide and herbicide exposure checks.
• Printing and coatings – VOC and solvent monitoring.
• Pharmaceutical production – Handling of active substances requiring internal uptake evaluation.
• Laboratories – Regular handling of reagents and toxic substances.
• Waste management and recycling – Exposure to heavy metals, organics, and unknown compounds.

How Do Occupational Health Providers Track Long-Term Chemical Exposure?

Each employee undergoing biological monitoring is assigned a secure occupational exposure file.

We use repeat test schedules and data analysis to track long-term absorption trends, detect early health changes, and benchmark results against guidance values.

Employers receive anonymised group data where appropriate, helping assess the effectiveness of engineering controls, PPE, and procedural safeguards over time.

Contact Biological Monitoring for expert guidance on workplace exposure testing and compliance.

Find More Info

Make sure you contact us today for a number of great biological monitoring services.

For more information on Biological Monitoring in Barking IG11 8, fill in the contact form below to receive a free quote today.