PGMs in the workplace

The main health effect of concern associated with PGMs is the potential for some forms of platinum to cause respiratory sensitization (allergy) – commonly called Platinum Salt Sensitivity (PSS). PSS has almost exclusively been confined to workers exposed to certain compounds of platinum known as complex halogenated platinum salts (CHPS), of which chloropla- tinates are the most common forms.

The IPA Health and Environment Science Committee has been actively engaged in driving forward the understanding of PSS for a number of years. During this time, various research and other programmes have been successfully delivered addressing key areas including: improved understanding of the dose-response relationship for occupational PSS through the sponsorship of an epidemiology study; development and implementa- tion of an improved method for industrial hygiene sampling and analysis of airborne platinum; and the collation and dissemination of state-of-the-science information about working safely with PGMs within an IPA Guidance Document.