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

## TL;DR

This study examines worker exposure to pollutants and biological hazards during the recycling of waste upholstered furniture in Great Britain.

## Contribution

The study provides empirical data on worker exposure to PBDEs and biological hazards in WUDS recycling, highlighting gaps in control measures.

## Key findings

- Exposures to PBDEs and inhalable dust were below occupational limits.
- Airborne bacteria, fungi, and endotoxins were elevated at most sites.
- Control measures were only partially implemented across all sites.

## 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 significantly below occupational exposure limits, while exposures to airborne bacteria and fungi were elevated at most sites. Exposures to endotoxins were above the recommended health-based nonbinding occupational exposure limits at 4 sites. Across all sites, recommended control measures were only partially met, indicating that exposures to airborne dust and biological agents could be reduced that these sites.