What is BS EN 1540 - Workplace exposure terminology about?
BS EN 1540 is a technical specification that specifies terms and definitions that are related to the assessment of workplace exposure to chemical and biological agents. These are either general terms or are specific to the physical and chemical processes of air sampling, the analytical method, or method performance.
The terms included are those that have been identified as being fundamental because their definition is necessary to avoid ambiguity and ensure consistency of use.
Who is BS EN 1540 - Workplace exposure terminology for?
BS EN 1540 on workplace exposure terminology is useful for:
- Environmental cleanliness
- Working conditions (physical)
- Industrial purposes
- Occupational safety
- The chemical industry
Why should you use BS EN 1540 - Workplace exposure terminology?
When an individual is exposed to a hazardous chemical in the course of their job through any route of entry (inhalation, ingestion, skin contact or absorption, etc.), it is referred to as exposure. It can be potential, accidental, or possible. Having access to common definitions and terminology across the industry facilitates and accelerates communication, research, and reporting across the industry. BS EN 1540 guidelines bring uniformity in reporting, documentation, research, innovation, and development. Using BS EN 1540 you will be in a position to facilitate clear communication across all industries that, in turn, facilitates exposure to chemical and biological agents. BS EN 1540 enables customers to have access to innovative product as a result of this.
What’s changed since the last update?
BS EN 1540:2021 supersedes BS EN 1540:2011, which is withdrawn.
BS EN 1540:2021 includes some technical changes with respect to BS EN 1540:2011.
These include:
- The given terminology has been re-adjusted, where appropriate, to ISO 18158:2016, which represents a modified ISO-adoption of EN 1540:2011
- The subdivision and order of the terms and definitions has partly been changed and simplified by deleting some subheadings
- The terms and definitions (admitted terms given in italic) have been added

