Comprehensive assessment of occupational exposure to microbial contamination in waste sorting facilities from Norway

Abstract

Introduction: It is of utmost importance to contribute to filling the knowledge gap concerning the characterization of occupational exposure to microbial agents in the waste sorting setting (automated and manual sorting). Methods: This study intends to apply a comprehensive field sampling and laboratory protocol (culture-based methods and molecular tools), assess fungal azole resistance, as well as to elucidate potential exposure-related health effects (cytotoxicity analyses). Skin-biota samples (swabs) were performed on workers and controls to identify other exposure routes. Results: In personal filter samples the guidelines in one automated industry surpassed the guidelines for fungi. Seasonal influence on viable microbial contamination including fungi with reduced susceptibility to the tested azoles was observed, besides the observed reduced susceptibility of pathogens of critical priority (Mucorales and Fusarium sp.). Aspergillus sections with potential toxigenic effects and clinical relevance were also detected in all the sampling methods. Discussion: The results regarding skin biota in both controls´ and workers´ hands claim attention for the possible exposure due to hand-to-face/mouth contact. This study allowed the conclusion that working in automated and manual waste sorting plants implies high exposure to microbial agents.