How are dusts, fumes, and mists measured?

The measurement of dusts, fumes, and mists is primarily focused on their concentration in the air, which is a critical factor in assessing potential exposure and health risks associated with airborne particulates. Concentration refers to the amount of a substance present in a given volume of air, often expressed in units such as milligrams per cubic meter (mg/m³).

While weight and volume do play roles in understanding these substances, the key factor for occupational safety is how much of these particles are present in the air we breathe, which directly affects worker health. Concentration in air allows for the evaluation of exposure limits set by organizations such as OSHA, guiding the establishment of safety measures and controls in the workplace.

Weight per unit of volume might measure density, but it doesn't provide the necessary context for assessing airborne particulate hazards effectively. Thus, concentration in air is the most relevant measurement when it comes to evaluating dusts, fumes, and mists in the context of occupational safety standards.