Also referred to as an air sampling pumps, air-quality pumps measure the air for biological, chemical or environmental hazards. Air quality pumps are used in a variety of industries including chemical, pharmaceutical, emergency response and in government agencies responsible for occupational health and public safety.

Air quality pumps come in a variety of shapes and sizes and are often categorized in an industry-specific manner according to hazards they are designed to detect. It is important to consider the following when gathering air quality pumps information and searching for an air quality pumps provider:

1. Are the air quality pumps designed to measure air quality in your industry?

2. Does your workplace require a high- or low-volume air quality pump?

3. Could your workers benefit from individual monitoring via the purchase of personal air quality pumps?

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find air quality pumps designed to detect hazards inherent in your industry

Many different types of air quality pumps are manufactured for today's workplace. One type of air quality pump may be better than another, depending on your industry. Pumps can be purchased to measure indoor or outdoor air quality and take samples of high or low volumes of air. The best way to narrow down your air quality pumps list is find a provider that carries a large selection, allowing you to compare each model's specifications and features.

I recommend: Zefon International carries the models of a few select manufacturers of air quality pumps. SKC also carries several and compares them side-by-side with an easy to read table. SKC's site also provides a list of which air measurements are best taken with each type of pump.

Determine if you need high- or low-volume air quality pumps

High-volume air quality pumps are used for general air sampling, breathing zone sampling and process sampling. Low-volume air quality pumps are primarily designed for measuring radioactivity in the air.

I recommend: HI-Q Environmental Products has a complete line of outdoor high-volume air samplers or air quality pumps. F&J Specialty Products has an equally impressive line of low-volume air quality pumps.

Consider purchasing personal air quality pumps to monitor individual exposure

Personal air sampling pumps may be worth considering for peace of mind and to ensure the safety of your employees. Personal air sampling pumps can help manage worker health risk by monitoring individual exposure to vapors, gases and other toxic substances.

I recommend: Sensidyne and Geotechnical Services carry complete lines of personal air quality pumps designed for individual use. Review each model's features to determine which one is best suited for your workplace and employees.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Portable air quality pumps are battery operated and are great for taking multiple field samplings. They are designed to be more lightweight and portable than other models -- making them perfect for measuring air quality on the go.