A Review of Video Exposure Monitoring as an Occupational Hygiene Tool

Received 2 September 2004; in final form 16 December 2004; published online 8 February 2005This study reviews use of video exposure monitoring (VEM, also known as PIMEX) as anoccupational hygiene tool since its inception in the mid-1980s. VEM involves the combinationof real-time monitoring instruments, usually for gases/vapours and dust, with video of theworker’s activities. VEM is an established method used by practitioners in different countries.The technical aspects of these VEM systems are described, then applications of VEM arediscussed, focussing on task analysis, training (risk communication), encouraging worker par-ticipation in and motivation for improvements in the workplace environment and occupationalhygiene research. The experiences from these applications are used to illustrate how exposurevisualization with video can act as a catalyst, initiating a change process in the workplace.Finally, the role of VEM as a workplace improvement tool, now and in the future, is discussed.Keywords: exposure visualization; PIMEX; real-time monitoring; risk communication; task analysis; videoexposure monitoring; workplace improvement strategy