What is the main purpose of taking air samples during a fumigation?

Taking air samples during a fumigation is crucial for assessing the concentration of the fumigant in the air, which directly informs the decision on when it is safe to remove the Air Purifying Respirator (APR). Monitoring the levels of fumigant residue helps ensure that the environment has returned to safe levels before personnel can enter the treated space. This practice is vital to protect the health and safety of workers and the public, as exposure to high levels of fumigants can be hazardous.

While ensuring compliance with local laws is important, air sampling primarily serves to monitor safety and health standards immediately related to fumigation practices. Determining the type of fumigant used is typically addressed prior to application and is not the main focus of taking air samples during the fumigation process. Checking for pest activity is a separate concern and does not relate to the safety and air quality monitoring that air sampling addresses.