In response to the known exposure of people and animals to crude oil and chemical dispersants being used in the Gulf of Mexico, NMS Labs has developed a panel of agents to help assess exposure. This panel was developed by NMS Labs toxicologists using their knowledge, experience and after discussion with industrial hygienists and scientists from around the country. While no one completely understands each and every component of the leaked crude oil, the following tests cover many of the common agents believed to be present. If at all possible, NMS Labs recommends that baseline testing of individuals takes place before potential exposure. Further, it should be kept in mind that exposure does not necessarily mean physical contact with the crude oil, but also includes being in an environment where vapors from the material permeate the air where individuals are located.

As an industry leader in environmental exposure testing, NMS Labs is now offering its OIL SPILL EXPOSURE TESTING PACKAGE. Healthcare providers, researchers and health officials may quickly obtain information about blood or urine levels for a broad list of chemicals associated with components of crude oil.

The Oil Spill Exposure Testing Package*:

  • Is a concise means to obtain broad exposure level insights, quickly.
  • Delivers information that can be used to help set baselines, determine exposure levels and obtain data for long term impact studies.
  • Is comprised of all of the 7 tests and multiple analytes listed below, relevant to exposure to both crude oil and dispersants being used in cleanup efforts, including 1-Hydroxypyrene, Benzene, Ethyl Benzene, Ethylphenol, Hippuric Acid, Hydrocarbons C1-7, Hydrocarbons C9-32, Mandelic Acid, Methylhippuric Acid, o,m,p-Xylenes, o-Cresol, Phenol, Phenylglyoxylic Acid, S-Phenylmercapturic Acid, Styrene, t,t-Muconic Acid, Thiosulfate, and Toluene

Environmental Exposure Panels

Test Reason for Testing
2416U Aromatic Solvents Metabolites Panel, Urine Metabolites of Potential Components of Crude Oil as designated in parentheses; Creatinine and Specific Gravity for normalizing purposes
0785B Aromatic Solvents Exposure Panel, Blood
0541B Benzene, Blood
3475U S-Phenylmercapturic Acid, Urine
Potential Components of Crude Oil
2358U 1-Hydroxypyrene, Urine Metabolite of Pyrene used as an indicator for Polyaromatic Hydrocarbon (PAH) exposure
4472U Thiosulfate, Urine Occupational toxin, biological marker of sulfide exposure
0011U 2-Butoxyethanol Metabolite (2-Butoxyacetic Acid - Total), Urine Biological marker of ethylene glycol monobutyl ether exposure

This list is a general guide of tests that could be useful for exposures assessment. More compound-specific concerns can be addressed by speaking with a toxicologist at NMS Labs. We recommend calling the laboratory and speaking to one of our toxicologists before sending samples to ensure proper timing of specimen collection, most appropriate specimens, transport temperatures, special handling, etc.

Well-recognized for its industry leading innovation capabilities, NMS Labs is currently developing and validating new tests specific to this situation. Contact us to request specific test development.