Nanotechnology

Industry Employers and Workers

Occupational Health Risks

Occupational health risks associated with manufacturing and using nanomaterials are not yet clearly understood. Minimal information is currently available on dominant exposure routes, potential exposure levels, and material toxicity of nanomaterials.

Studies have indicated that low solubility ultrafine particles are more toxic than larger particles on a mass for mass basis. There are strong indications that particle surface area and surface chemistry are primarily responsible for observed responses in cell cultures and animals. There are also indications that ultrafine particles can penetrate through the skin or translocate from the respiratory system to other organs. Research is continuing to understand how these unique modes of biological interaction may lead to specific health effects.

Workers within nanotechnology-related industries have the potential to be exposed to uniquely engineered materials with novel sizes, shapes, and physical and chemical properties at levels far exceeding ambient concentrations. To understand the impact of these exposures on health, and how best to devise appropriate exposure monitoring and control strategies, much research is still needed. Until a clearer picture emerges, the limited evidence available would suggest caution when potential exposures to nanoparticles may occur.

Frequently Asked Questions about Nanotechnology

This link provides answers to frequently asked questions about nanotechnology and occupational safety and health. This information is useful for policymakers and media professionals who want to learn more about nanotechnology.

NIOSH Publications

The following publications provide useful information about nanotechnology for industry employers and workers:

Strategic Plan for NIOSH Nanotechnology Research and Guidance
DHHS (NIOSH) Publication 2010-105
This plan updates the September 2005 strategic plan using knowledge gained from results of ongoing research as described in the 2007 report Progress Toward Safe Nanotechnology in the Workplace: A Report from the NIOSH Nanotechnology Research Center and the 2009 report Progress Toward Safe Nanotechnology in the Workplace: A Report from the NIOSH Nanotechnology Research Center, Project Updates for 2007 and 2008.

Progress Toward Safe Nanotechnology in the Workplace A Report from the NIOSH Nanotechnology Research Center
DHHS (NIOSH) Publication 2010-104
This document is a report of the progress of the NIOSH Nanotechnology Research Center (NTRC) for 2007 through 2008. Using only internally redirected resources, the NTRC has continued to make contributions to all the steps in the continuum from hazard identification to risk management.

Approaches to Safe Nanotechnology: Managing the Health and Safety Concerns Associated with Engineered Nanomaterials
DHHS (NIOSH) Publication 2009-125
This document reviews what is currently known about nanoparticle toxicity, process emissions and exposure assessment, engineering controls, and personal protective equipment. This updated version of the document incorporates some of the latest results of NIOSH research, but it is only a starting point. The document serves a dual purpose: it is a summary of NIOSH's current thinking and interim recommendations; and it is a request from NIOSH to occupational safety and health practitioners, researchers, product innovators and manufacturers, employers, workers, interest group members, and the general public to exchange information that will ensure that no worker suffers material impairment of safety or health as nanotechnology develops.

Interim Guidance for Medical Screening and Hazard Surveillance for Workers Potentially Exposed to Engineered Nanoparticles
DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2009-116
[Supersedes Draft Interim Guidance: Medical Screening for Workers Potentially Exposed to Engineered Nanoparticles] This document was developed to address concerns about whether workers exposed to engineered nanoparticles will be at increased risk of adverse health effects and whether medical screening or some other type of occupational health surveillance is appropriate for these workers. Although increasing evidence indicates that exposure to some engineered nanoparticles can cause adverse health effects in laboratory animals, insufficient medical evidence exists at this time to recommend the specific medical screening of workers potentially exposed to engineered nanoparticles.

Safe Nanotechnology in the Workplace
DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2008-112
This brochure provides an introduction to nanotechnology in the workplace for employers, managers, and safety and health professionals. It addresses the following questions: Are nanoparticles hazardous to workers? How can workers be exposed? Can nanoparticles be measured? Can worker exposures be controlled?

Progress Toward Safe Nanotechnology in the Workplace
DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2007-123
This document is a report of the progress of the NIOSH Nanotechnology Research Center (NTRC) since its inception in 2004 through 2006. Using only internally redirected resources, the NTRC has begun to make contributions to all the steps in the continuum from hazard identification to risk management.

Documents for Public Comment

NIOSH invites internal and external stakeholders, researchers, industry, and anyone interested in nanotechnology to participate in an information exchange. NIOSH seeks feedback, comments, and review of documents developed to advance occupational safety and health in the field of nanotechnology. NIOSH is also interested in hearing about any relevant information or experiences pertaining to the field of nanotechnology. As documents become available for public comment, they will be posted here.