UK health experts find no compelling evidence of risk from tyre and road wear particles

An independent advisory committee to the UK Department of Health has found no compelling evidence that exposure to tyre and road wear particles poses a health risk at current UK concentrations. Based on a review of present scientific knowledge, the updated position statement recently published by the Committee on the Medical Effects of Air Pollutants (COMEAP) extends to all non-exhaust particles from road transport, including brake wear and road surface particulates.

However, the committee did recognise knowledge-gaps: “it is recommended that new epidemiological and toxicological research should be undertaken to further understand the potential health risk of this aspect of vehicular pollution and to provide a basis for further policy”.

Karl Naylor, BTMA Chairman said: “We welcome this thorough examination of scientific evidence by respected UK experts that gives a solid base on which to build further understanding”.