Which method is used to guide respiratory protection selection based on worker exposure?

Personal sampling is the method used to guide respiratory protection selection based on worker exposure because it involves collecting air samples from the breathing zone of an individual worker. This approach provides direct measurement of the actual exposure levels that the worker experiences in their specific environment. By analyzing these samples, a more accurate understanding of the airborne concentration of hazardous materials, such as asbestos fibers, can be determined. This information is critical for selecting the appropriate type of respiratory protection to ensure the safety and health of the worker.

In contrast, area sampling measures the concentration of contaminants in a specific location rather than at the individual worker's breathing zone, which might not reflect their true exposure. Static sampling is also typically used in fixed locations and may not account for worker mobility during the task. Bulk sampling involves collecting solid materials to analyze for asbestos content but does not provide data on airborne exposures to workers. Thus, personal sampling is the preferred method for tailoring respiratory protection to actual exposure levels.