Phenol — biological monitoring
When to suspect: Phenol-formaldehyde (Bakelite) resins, phenolic disinfectants, bisphenol-A / epoxy & nylon precursors, slimicides, oil refining. Also a benzene metabolite.
Urinary phenol (total) (mg/g creatinine)
| Level | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| 4.5 – 20.7 | Non-exposed background |
| 250 | ACGIH BEI — end of shift |
Aspirin / salicylates, sulfonamides, phenolic mouthwash/lozenges and smoking raise background.
Biological exposure index
ACGIH BEI = 250 mg/g creatinine, end of shift.
Basis: ACGIH BEI; background per NIOSH Method 8305.
Sample collection & preparation
- Spot urine, end-of-shift; plain container; co-measure creatinine.
- Record aspirin/salicylate, phenolic mouthwash use & smoking.
- Refrigerate.
Statutory basis. Factories Act 1948 sets only AIR limits (Second Schedule TWA/STEL, s.41F) and mandates the hazardous-process exam (s.41C, ≤12-monthly); it gives NO blood/urine values. The ranges below are ACGIH BEI / OSHA / clinical benchmarks (India has not adopted biological limits into law).
Reference information for occupational-health professionals — not medical advice, and not a substitute for examination by a qualified physician.
All 27 agents — toxicology & biological monitoring
MedFactory — Occupational Health Centre software for Indian factories