Table 1 Overview of discrepancies between scientific and employee mental models [30]

Properties

PM is usually invisible

It is unclear whether PM is visible or not

It is not possible to smell PM

It may be possible to smell PM

Black carbon, metals, silicium and rubber are important constituents of PM

–

Particle size is most often defined in terms of PM₁₀, PM_2.5 and PM_0.1

–

PM mostly consists of solid particles, but may also include liquid particles or semi-volatile compounds.

–

Sources

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Sand and dirt roads cause PM

There are natural sources of PM, such as sea salt, which don’t cause adverse health effects.

–

Effects

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PM exposure may cause headaches and nausea

PM exposure is associated with cardiovascular disease, even more so than with respiratory disease

(Almost) no mention of cardiovascular disease; only attention for respiratory diseases

PM causes about 800,000 annual premature deaths worldwide.

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PM is also an environmental risk (for example due to acid rain or nutrient depletion).

–

Prevention

There is an occupational hygiene strategy that involves a four-level hierarchical model, which should be followed to reduce PM exposure.

There are a large number of prevention methods (sprinkling water, respirators, …) that could be used to reduce PM exposure.

Education and empowerment

A viable education system improves safety culture and willingness to protect against (exposure) risks.

The current education system could be improved; it is often too ritualistic and repetitive, and not everyone is involved with the process.