Speakers

Wearables include smart watches, smart clothing and eyewear which, in addition to the base material, may contain various additives such as plasticizers, UV stabilizers, pigments or antimicrobials. The choices made in materials of construction leads to concerns about chemical exposure. How safe are these devices for the consumer? Are chemical allergens present? Will these chemicals leach out when the device is being used as intended? Could these chemicals leach and cause an allergic reaction?

In a joint study by EAG Laboratories and Gradient Corporation, we apply analytical chemistry and toxicology to evaluate the potential skin irritants or allergens of wearable materials. Learn how scientists design studies to evaluate wearable safety and avoid a rash of problems, including product recall, lawsuits, and regulatory agency inquiries.

Dr. Lewandowski is a toxicologist and chemist working in Gradient's Seattle, Washington office. He has over 25 years of experience in the areas of product safety evaluation, pharmacokinetics, metals toxicology, and developmental toxicology. He works with a number of tech companies, both established firms and start ups, to help them ensure the safety of their products before and after launch. He is an affiliate faculty member at the University of Washington School of Public Health where he lectures on toxicology and risk assessment. In 2012-2013, he served as chair of the Society of Toxicology's Education Committee, which works to increase science literacy and public knowledge of toxicology. He is an author of numerous book chapters and manuscripts relating to the practice of risk assessment, occupational health and consumer product toxicology. He is board certified in toxicology in the US as well as Europe.

Gradient is an environmental and risk sciences consulting firm renowned for our specialties in toxicology, chemistry, epidemiology, risk assessment, product safety, contaminant fate and transport, industrial hygiene, and GIS. We employ sound science to assist clients in resolving their complex problems relating to chemicals in consumer products and the environment.