Working safely with PGMs
Workplace Guidance Document - Safe Use of PGMs in the Workplace
The Guide "Safe Use of Platinum Group Metals in the Workplace" is a 2017 sector-wide consensus document promoting the safe handling of PGMs in the workplace. It is targeted at health professionals and those responsible for day-to-day operations in the industry. It is a valuable guide in advancing awareness of the hazards and risks associated with occupational exposure to PGMs, and how to effectively manage them.
The main health effect of concern for certain forms of platinum in industrial settings is respiratory sensitisation, commonly referred to as platinum salt sensitivity (PSS). It 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.
NOTE: This Guide was prepared by independent consultants in collaboration with specialists within the member companies of the IPA. Independent expert peer reviews and opinions were also obtained. The Guide is not intended to be relied upon as a definitive or exhaustive source – readers are encouraged to obtain further information, such as that available in supplier safety data sheets. Furthermore, legal conditions and requirements are constantly evolving and readers are required to verify compliance with applicable local regulations related to worker medical surveillance.
See the Conditions of Use and Disclaimer below.
Chapter 1 - Introduction and Executive Summary
Chapter 2 - Physical and Chemical Properties of PGMs
Chapter 3 - Production and Uses of PGMs
Chapter 4 - Sources of Exposure to PGMs
Chapter 5 - Toxicokinetics of Platinum and other PGMs
Chapter 6 - Toxicity of Platinum and Platinum Compounds (with summaries for other PGMs
Chapter 7 - Medical Surveillance of Workers Exposed to Respiratory Sensitising Platinum Compounds
Chapter 8 - Workplace Monitoring
Chapter 9 - Control Measures and Management Systems
Chapter 10 - Workplace Regulatory Systems and Hazard Communication
CONDITIONS OF USE AND DISCLAIMER: This document should not be relied upon as a substitute for appropriate professional expertise. Furthermore, the information in this document does not constitute legal or mandatory advice. It is for information purposes only. The content of this document is based on the understanding of the circumstances at the time of publication and updates may be required in the future. Any information or recommendation given is non-binding. Whilst reasonable precautions were taken for the verification of the information in the document, it is to be relied upon at the user´s own risk. No representations or warranties of any kind are made with regard to its completeness, reliability, usability or accuracy or possible typographical errors contained and in no event shall the IPA be liable for damages or losses of any kind arising from the use of this document or the reliance on it.
The user is therefore generally obliged to professionally check or to have professionally checked the suitability of the information in the document for its intended use. This document in no way releases a company of its obligations to comply with legally binding rules and regulations. Companies must be aware that antitrust and competition laws may apply for several activities conducted by companies together. The views and opinions expressed in this document do not necessarily state or represent those of the IPA.