SIST EN ISO 23320:2022 PDF

Overview

EN ISO 23320:2022 - Workplace air - Gases and vapours - Requirements for evaluation of measuring procedures using diffusive samplers - defines performance requirements and laboratory test methods for validating diffusive sampling systems and the measuring procedures that use them. The document applies where sampling and analysis are carried out in separate stages (e.g., procedures like ISO 16200-2 and ISO 16017-2). It is intended for method developers and manufacturers (commercial and non‑commercial) and supersedes EN 838:2010.

Key topics and requirements

This standard specifies the framework and test methods to demonstrate that a diffusive-sampler-based procedure meets performance criteria for workplace air monitoring. Major technical topics include:

• Sampler requirements

  • Nominal uptake rate determination
  • Effects of air velocity and sampler orientation
  • Sampler leak testing
  • Shelf life for certain sampler types (Type A impregnated supports)
  • Sampler identification, marking, and instructions for use

• Measuring procedure requirements

  • Defined sampling procedures and analytical procedures
  • Method recovery and method precision testing
  • Estimation and reporting of expanded uncertainty of measurement

• General test conditions and methods

  • Use of defined reagents and apparatus
  • Calibration gas mixture generation and mass concentration determination
  • Test report content and required documentation

• Informative annexes

  • Fundamentals of diffusive sampling, uncertainty estimation, diffusion coefficient calculations, and worked examples of expanded uncertainty.

Applications and practical value

EN ISO 23320:2022 is used to validate and document the performance of diffusive samplers and associated analytical methods for occupational exposure assessment. Practical uses include:

• Demonstrating compliance of a sampling method with international performance criteria for workplace air monitoring
• Supporting product development and quality control for sampler manufacturers
• Preparing method validation packages for laboratories and accreditation bodies
• Informing purchasers and occupational hygienists about sampler limitations (airflow sensitivity, shelf life)
• Providing standardized procedures for uncertainty estimation and test reporting

Who should use this standard

• Diffusive sampler manufacturers and product developers
• Laboratory method developers and analytical chemists performing workplace air analysis
• Occupational hygienists, safety managers, and industrial health regulators
• Standards bodies and accreditation assessors

Related standards

• ISO 16200‑2, ISO 16017‑2 (examples of procedures using diffusive samplers)
• ISO 20581 (general performance requirements for measurement procedures)
• ISO 16107 and superseded EN 838:2010

Keywords: EN ISO 23320:2022, diffusive samplers, workplace air, gases and vapours, measuring procedures, method validation, uptake rate, uncertainty, sampler leak test.