Current OHS Best Practices for the Australian Nanotechnology Industry

a position paper by the Nanosafe Australia Network

By A Harford, J Edwards, B Priestly and P Wright

Advancement of the nanotechnology industry in Australia has seen numerous researchers beginning to handle nanomaterials, as well as the establishment of industrial facilities that are producing nanomaterials for incorporation into consumer products.

Traditionally the risk assessment of chemicals relies heavily on their composition, whereas the key determinants in the adverse effects of nanomaterials are their physical parameters (such as size, surface area and surface chemistry). The unique properties of nanomaterials (which makes them attractive materials for use in various products) may result in distinctive toxicological properties not seen in their bulk states. Workers handling nanomaterials may be exposed to them via inhalation, dermal exposure and ingestion - although workplace levels have not been adequately characterized.

At the present time, workplace exposure standards are not available, and appropriate methods that accurately characterize nanomaterial exposure have not been established. Due to the poorly characterized toxicity of nanomaterials, measures taken to reduce the exposure or workers should apply the "as low as reasonably practicable" approach through risk management programs that broadly encompass all of the hierarchy of controls used for ultrafine particulates (including appropriate engineering controls, administrative controls and personal protective equipment).

(Journal of Occupational Health and Safety Australian and New Zealand. vol. 23, no 4, August 2007. pp315-31)