| Summary: |
This guidance document was published by the National Science Foundation’s Science and Engineering Center for High-rate Nanomanufacturing to protect laboratories from unknown nanomaterial hazards. It emphasizes a precautionary approach to working with nanoparticles and follows the Precautionary Principle in reducing exposure to the lowest possible level until the science has concluded that there is no risk. The three possible routes of exposure are airborne, dermal, and ingestion. Basic principles for minimizing exposure include keeping nanoparticles bound in a matrix or solution rather than in a free particle state, following a hierarchy of hazard controls of engineering controls, administrative controls, and personal protective equipment, and best work practices. |