Factors affecting airborne beryllium concentrations in dental spaces

Air sampling for beryllium concentrations produced during finishing procedures for a beryllium-containing alloy was conducted in two rooms with capacities of 700 and 10,000 cubic feet. The clearance rate of beryllium in the air and the effect of ventilation and room size on these concentrations were investigated. With local lathe ventilation, no beryllium was found. Without local lathe ventilation, mean 10 minutes concentrations of about 23 mug per cubic meter were found at the breathing zone of the lathe operator in both rooms. At 4 and 8 feet from the breathing zone, sizable concentrations of beryllium above the maximum acceptable standard were found only in the small room. These levels decreased to zero 10 minutes after completion of the finishing and polishing procedure. It was concluded that there was little hazard to dental personnel when local lathe ventilation was used; however, our finding of high concentrations of beryllium in the air when lathe ventilation was not used indicates that continued vigilance must be maintained.