The biomonitoring study aims to evaluate genotoxic damage and other parameters of exposure in different occupational exposed populations that work directly with different plastics.

The exponential increase in the production and use of plastic goods translates into a parallel increase of environmental plastic waste that is continuously degraded into micro and nanoplastics (MNPLs). Information on their effects on human health is still preliminary, especially regarding human biomonitoring studies, thus more information is required for risk assessment evaluation.

This observational study aims to evaluate the exposure to MNPLs in human populations occupationally exposed to different types of plastics (fibers and plastic waste). The study will evaluate the effect of exposure to MNPLs (genotoxic and microbiota effects) in different body samples (blood, exfoliated buccal cells, urine,and feces) and also will use those samples to evaluate the presence of MNPLs.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Aged over 18 years.
• Healthy subjects defined by the absence of evidence of any active or chronic disease following a detailed medical and surgical history, a complete physical examination including vital signs, 12-lead ECG, haematology, blood chemistry, and urine analysis.
• Able to participate and willing to give written informed consent and to comply with the study restrictions.
• Have been working at the company for the last 48 months

Exclusion Criteria:

• Workers decline participation
• Legal incapacity or inability to understand or comply with the requirements of the study.
• Any hierarchical subordination to the PI
• Clinically significant findings as determined by medical history taking, physical examination, ECG, and vital signs.
• Submitted to X-ray in the three previous months

The study aims to determine whether workers occupationally exposed to different plastics show increased genomic damage, changes in cytokine expression and/ or microbiota. Moreover, the levels of macro/microplastics in different body fluids will be characterized.

Different European populations dedicated to the recycling of plastics and the production of non-woven textiles will be used, as well as a control group that will match according to the characteristics of the populations.

At least 50 workers from each of the participating industries will be used to demonstrate a higher exposure MNPLs level and, therefore, an increased health risk.