Evaluation of professional exposure to nanoparticles in automotive repair activities

Occupational exposure to nanoparticles is a recent and simultaneously increasing risk, which classifies it as an emerging risk. At work, inhalation is the most common route of exposure. Inhaled nanoparticles can be deposited in the airways and lungs depending on their shape and size. The objective of this project was to evaluate the professional exposure of this emerging risk to the level, productivity and sustainability of the automotive repair industry responsible for the production of nanoparticles, or whose production process implies the release of ultrafine particles. Exposure to nanoparticles varied depending on the workplace. The jobs that presented the greatest risk in terms of exposure to large concentrations of nanoparticles were welding, followed by the process of storage/office work and car repair.