Micro- and Nanoplastics: Workplace Exposure and Hazard Effects

Micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) have emerged as significant environmental pollutants, raising global concerns about their health effects on human health due to workplace exposure. The inhalation of airborne microplastics, particularly in occupational settings, poses a risk of localised toxicity, potentially triggering immune responses and other adverse health effects. Furthermore, the small size of nanoplastics allows them to penetrate biological membranes, leading to systemic exposure and potential accumulation in various tissues. Moreover, MNPs can act as vectors for microbial pathogens, harmful chemicals, including microbial toxins, persistent organic pollutants and endocrine disruptors that can leach from the plastic matrix into biological systems. The present workshop is intended to provide the participants with the latest methodological advances achieved in PlasticsFate, one of the consortia in CUSP (the European Research Cluster to Understand the Health Impacts of Micro- and Nanoplastics), by focusing on exposure characterisation in occupational settings and related hazard effects for humans.

Course objectives

The main objective is to share updated strategies for workplace exposure assessment of MNPs as well as the measurement of adverse outcomes.

Following sub-objectives will also be covered:

• Exposure assessment of airborne micro- and nanoplastics with focus on tools and sampling strategies

• Methods and efficiency of analysis strategies of airborne MNPs
• Hazards associated with MNPs.

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Main topics

• Airborne exposure assessment equipment
• Field sampling strategies
• Analysis methods for MNPs
• Toxicity of MNPs
• Potential health effects

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Target groups

• Scientists in the field of occupational hygiene, exposure assessment and toxicology

• Labor inspection authorities for safety

• Representatives of employers and employees

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Subject background

Micro- and nano-plastics (MNPs) pollution is globally recognized as new environmental issue with a potential negative health impact on human. Microplastics are defined as plastic particles with sizes between 5mm and 1 μm, while nanoplastics have sizes below 1μm. Their release is generally linked to various anthropogenic activities and natural processes. To reduce such negative impact in human, exposure and related health issues need to be characterization and appropriate regulatory policies need to be developed and implemented at all relevant societal levels.

While it is well documented that MNPs can cross different bodily barriers and accumulate in different vital organs through inhalation, ingestion, and skin contact, the full extent of human exposure and their impacts on human health, particularly in occupational settings, are still not well characterized. Some studies suggest potential risks to human health, such as inflammation, cellular damage, and the potential for harmful contaminants to be absorbed into the plastic particles. To help close this gap of knowledge, the EU initiated and funded CUSP (the European Research Cluster to Understand the Health Impacts of Micro and Nanoplastics), which groups five consortia that join forces to decipher human exposure to MNPs and associated hazards.

The present workshop is therefore intended to update the participants with the latest methodological advances achieved in PlasticsFate, one of these consortiums, by focusing on exposure characterization in occupational settings and related hazard effects for humans.

General course fee and cancellation information

The courses and workshops vary in price. Please note that the course fee does not cover meals or accommodation. The course fee and day-package fee are invoiced after the registration deadline (you can also pay the course with credit card).

Travel arrangements

Please refrain from booking any travel tickets until we have confirmed the course. The confirmation, which will be sent at the latest after the registration deadline, will include detailed information on the payment of the course fee and day-packages, as well as information on practical arrangements. Please note that you are not insured by NIVA.

Cancellation policy

Cancellations received by September 4th, 2025: full refund
Cancellations received by September 5th, 2025 or later: no refund

The total price of the course will be invoiced after the registration deadline (you can also pay the course with credit card).

The price is subject to minor changes.

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Contact persons

Course leaders

Anani K. Afanou

STAMI

e-mail: anani.afanou@stami.no

IN practical matters, please contact:

Nora Tobiasson

Project Manager and Sustainability Advisor

NIVA

e-mail: nora.tobiasson@niva.org