The Impact of Nanomaterials on Occupational Safety and Health

The potential for government and civilian workers to be exposed to nanomaterials is rapidly increasing. It is imperative that the exposure risk and toxicity of nanomaterials are quantified before products with nanoscale components are widely commercialized and distributed. This project will identify factors that influence the generation, dispersion, and deposition of nanomaterials in the workplace. The risk of exposure via inhalation, dermal contact, or ingestion routes will be investigated and toxicity profiles will be assessed for a set of standardized nanomaterials with well defined physical and chemical characteristics. A Nanomaterial Assessment for Safety and Handling (NASH) database will disseminate the collected information via a publicly accessible web interface. The NASH database will provide a repository for the nanomaterial characterization data, their exposure risk, and a summary of in-vitro and in-vivo toxicity data for each class of nanomaterial. The effectiveness of personal protective equipment for providing a barrier to nanomaterial exposure will be evaluated. A comprehensive handbook for individuals who work with nanomaterials will be prepared to offer guidance on the safety, handling and exposure risks of nanomaterials.