Field comparison of passive sampling and biological approaches for measuring exposure to PAH and alkylphenols from offshore produced water discharges

► Discharges from the offshore oil and gas industry continue to cause concern. ► We compare biomonitoring and passive sampling as measures of these discharges. ► Exposure relative to proximity to the discharge was generally represented. ► Only passive samplers reflected the alkylphenols abundant in discharges. ► A biologically independent measure of exposure is recommended.