EXPOSURE TO ULTRAFINE PARTICLES IN THE FOOD INDUSTRY
Synopsis
The air quality is essential to human health. In industrial environments, monitoring the environmental conditions of workplaces is particularly important. Ultrafine particles are particularly concerning due to their ability to penetrate the respiratory system and reach other organs through the bloodstream associated with various adverse effects. Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess workers' exposure to ultrafine particles and other atmospheric pollutants such as PM2.5, PM10, CO2, and CO, temperature, and relative humidity, at different workstations in a food industry. Results: The results showed statistically significant differences between sectors and between shifts. The box forming machines had the highest average concentrations of ultrafine particles, not exceeding the recommended values considered high, while the agricultural department recorded higher levels of PM, considerably exceeding the recommended values. The correlations observed between UFP, HR, and temperature confirmed the influence of these environmental parameters. Conclusions: This study therefore concluded that the company's workers are exposed to worrying levels of airborne particles, reinforcing the need to implement mitigation strategies, such as adequate ventilation systems and continuous monitoring. These data contribute to recognizing the importance of assessing indoor air quality in industrial environments and implementing effective measures.
