Bisphenol-A WEL 2 mg/m³: monitoring and control priorities for PCBUs

Bisphenol-A (BPA) has a new WEL of 2 mg/m³ (8-hour TWA). WES applies until 30 November 2026, then WEL applies when implemented.

Exposure profile

BPA may occur in resin, polycarbonate and epoxy manufacture, powder handling, bag emptying, blending, charging, milling, maintenance, labs and clean-down. Skin contact and sensitisation remain separate from airborne comparison.

SEG and controls

• Map charging, blending, bag tipping, sampling, clean-down and maintenance; include contractors.
• Prefer pellets, slurry, closed transfer and enclosed charging.
• Verify LEV capture; use HEPA vacuuming or wet methods, never dry sweeping or compressed air.
• Manage damaged bags and collector maintenance under permits. Select chemical-resistant gloves and clothing.

Monitoring

Plan personal sampling to match the WEL notation and method, with representative shifts and replicates. Document fraction, flow, media, LOD/LOQ, blanks and shift weighting. Static samples diagnose controls but do not replace personal results. Compare results to 2 mg/m³ and explain uncertainty.

Contact Anitech for occupational hygiene support.