Workers' Compensation: Microplastics: Workplace Threat

Recent scientific studies and published articles have reported the dangers of microplastics and nanoplastics (MNPs) in the workplace and the consequences of occupational exposure to MNPs.

The Dangers of Microplastics and Nanoplastics in the Workplace

Microplastics and nanoplastics (MNPs) are tiny plastic particles less than 5 millimeters in size. They are found everywhere in the environment, including in the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the food we eat. MNPs can also be generated by a variety of industrial processes in many workplaces.

Occupational Exposure to MNPs

Workers can be exposed to MNPs through inhalation, ingestion, and skin contact. Inhalation is the most common route of exposure, as MNPs can become airborne during the manufacturing, processing, and disposal of plastic products. Workers in the plastics industry and those in other industries that use or handle plastic products, such as construction, recycling, and waste management, are at risk of exposure to MNPs.

Consequences of Occupational Exposure to MNPs

The health effects of occupational exposure to MNPs are still being studied, but there is growing evidence that they can be harmful. Studies have shown that MNPs can cause inflammation, oxidative stress, and cell DNA damage. These effects can lead to a variety of health problems, including respiratory problems, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and reproductive problems.

A recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that workers who were exposed to high levels of MNPs had an increased risk of lung cancer. Another study published in Science found that MNPs could cross the placenta and enter the fetal bloodstream. This raises concerns about the potential health effects of MNPs on unborn children.

Comments by Eric Topol

Eric Topol, a cardiologist and the editor-in-chief of Medscape, has warned about the potential dangers of MNPs. He has said that "we need to be concerned about the long-term health effects of exposure to these particles." Topol has also called for more research on the health effects of MNPs.

What Can Be Done?

Several things can be done to reduce the risks of occupational exposure to MNPs. These include:

Implementing engineering controls to reduce the release of MNPs into the workplace air.
Providing workers with personal protective equipment (PPE), such as respirators and gloves.
Educating workers about the dangers of MNPs and how to protect themselves.
Conducting more research on the health effects of MNPs.

Industries at Risk

Workers in industries such as plastic manufacturing, waste management, and recycling may be at a higher risk of exposure.

Conclusion

MNPs are a growing concern, and protecting workers from exposure to these harmful particles is important. By implementing the recommendations above, we can help reduce the risks of occupational exposure to MNPs and protect workers' health.

Nihart, A.J., Garcia, M.A., El Hayek, E. et al. Bioaccumulation of microplastics in decedent human brains. Nat Med (2025). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41591-024-03453-1

Additional Resources

Recommended Citation: Gelman, Jon., Microplastics: Workplace Threat, www.gelmans.com (02/24/2025) https://workers-compensation.blogspot.com/2025/02/microplastics-workplace-threat.html

......

ORDER NOW

*Jon L. Gelman of Wayne, NJ, is the author of NJ Workers’ Compensation Law (West-Thomson-Reuters) and co-author of the national treatise Modern Workers’ Compensation Law (West-Thomson-Reuters). For over five decades, the Law Offices of Jon Gelman 1.973.696.7900
jon@gelmans.com has represented injured workers and their families who have suffered occupational illnesses and diseases.