PGMs in the workplace
The main health effect of concern associated with PGMs is the potential for some forms of platinum to cause respiratory sensitisation (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 chloroplatinates 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 exposure-response relationship for occupational PSS through the sponsorship of an epidemiology study;
- development and implementation 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 and a number of good practice guidance documents.
Further information on these and other topics can be found below.
