A B Biomonitoring

A B Biomonitoring Ltd (ABB) was founded in 1998 by Drs J P Aston and R L Ball, both former Shell employees and became a tenant at the Medicentre in October 1999. The company was formed with a view to developing and commercialising rapid, cost-effective screening methods for monitoring occupational exposure in the chemical / petrochemical industry. Using their unique know-how, ABB scientists select biomarkers and develop simple, rapid and cost effective tests. Research efforts during the last 3 years have focused on the development of methods of monitoring occupational exposure to a range of carcinogenic chemicals including, benzene, ethylene oxide, and propylene oxide.

Current research programs focus upon industrial chemicals and environmental pollutants with known adverse health effects (such as cancer initiators and asthma inducers). Research projects are being developed with leading academic groups in Europe, and working links with the chemical and petrochemical industry have been established.

AB Biomonitoring has collaborated with the Health and Safety Executive (UK) who promote biomonitoring and other professional health organizations who are supportive of this research. ABB is committed to developing a series of biomonitoring tests for a range of industrial chemicals, especially where exposures to these chemicals pose concerns to human health. Two novel tests for exposure to propylene oxide (PO) and ethylene oxide (EO) have recently undergone validation. These rapid and easy to use tests measure levels of modified hemoglobin in small volumes of venous blood. The results indicate the degree of cumulative exposure over a period of 3 months.

"I have always found the staff at Cardiff Medicentre to be both understanding and supportive with the business challenges encountered by ABB. Additionally, the Centre’s facilities create a good impression and have helped generate business confidence in both our customers and partners" - Lathan Ball.