When using any of our badges, it is important that the badge cover be put back in place as soon as the sampling event is complete. However, clients will occasionally tell us that they keep the detachable covers for the TraceAir II badges (models 525, 581, 596, and 527) separate from the samplers themselves and only replace them once the employees have returned the badges. We strongly urge clients to remember that the cover is not simply packaging; it is an important part of the sampling system that helps define the intended sampling period. Once the cover is removed, the badge continues collecting contaminants from the surrounding air until it is sealed again.
Leaving a badge uncovered after sampling can result in additional vapors being collected beyond the planned monitoring duration. This means the sample may no longer represent the employee’s actual exposure during the designated sampling period. Even a short amount of extra collection time can affect the accuracy of the results, particularly when monitoring low concentrations or evaluating compliance with short-term occupational exposure limits.
An uncovered badge is also more vulnerable to contamination during handling, transportation, and storage. Exposure to nearby chemicals, cleaning products, solvents, or other airborne contaminants can introduce unintended material onto the sampling media. This may lead to elevated results that do not accurately reflect workplace conditions.
In addition to protecting the sample, the cover and attached label contain important information needed for laboratory processing and reporting. The label serves as the sample identification and is used to match the monitor with the sampling details provided by the customer on their chain of custody. If covers are mixed up between badges or not returned with the sample, critical information can be lost, creating delays, confusion, or the need for additional follow-up before analysis can be completed.
For consultants and industrial hygienists, reliable exposure data depends on both sample integrity and proper documentation. To ensure the highest quality results, always provide the complete badge, including the cover and attached label, to the person conducting the sampling. Instruct them to replace the cover immediately upon completion of the sampling event and return the badge with the label intact when submitting samples to the laboratory. This simple step helps define the end of sampling, protects the sample from contamination, preserves critical sample information, and ensures the results accurately represent the intended monitoring period. Accurate samples lead to more confident decisions and more reliable exposure assessments.
If you have any questions, please contact us at customer service at 800-833-1258.