VDI 4252 Blatt 4:2017-07

The standard describes the active sampling of wind-borne pollen and spores in ambient air with a volumetric sampling device and the principles of downstream microscopic analysis. The standard standardises the sampling method (including the sampling device) and the evaluation method for all German measuring and evaluation stations in consideration of DIN CEN/TS 16868 (DIN SPEC 33973). For reliably determine and report the allergologically relevant pollen exposure for the population in Germany, it is necessary to standardise the procedure for sampling and evaluation. The pollen measuring method described in this standard is intended for the standardised collection of airborne dust samples with the aid of a volumetric sampling device and the subsequent standardised evaluation of these samples. As a result of the standardised procedure, the pollen and spore count data is to be rendered comparable for allergological purposes in Germany. This is necessary so that for patients, the majority of whom are multi-sensitised, and for allergists the cause of illness can be identified. For only specific immunotherapy (treatment with the cause of the disease) is immunologically effective. Beyond the standard, efforts are to be made to link the findings on pollen and spore exposure to medical efficacy data in order to develop a better understanding of the potential causes of disease. The standard has been written with reference to DIN CEN/TS 16868 (DIN SPEC 33973). By means of this standard, an important step is therefore being taken towards the European harmonisation of measuring methods (with respect to the assessment of exposure in other regions of Europe).