Worker exposure to persistent organic pollutants, as polybrominated diphenyl ethers, and biological hazards during the processing of waste upholstered domestic seating in Great Britain.

ABSTRACT: Pressure to increase rates of recycling in Great Britain is expected to increase to meet circular economy and net zero drivers. There are concerns about worker exposure to persistent organic pollutants (POPs) during the processing and recycling of waste upholstered domestic seating (WUDS). The aim of this study was to understand worker exposures to POPs, specifically the flame retardants polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), and other airborne substances hazardous to health, when WUDS go through the recycling process. Five WUDS processing sites were visited by a health and safety executive occupational hygienist, who collected worker and static air samples, bulk dust and bulk material samples, and assessed control measures in use. All exposures to inhalable dust and PBDEs were significan

SUBMITTER: Gosling RJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12821373 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature