| Summary: |
Of the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work’s list of the top ten emerging risks (physical, biological, psychosocial, and chemical) in the workplace, nanoparticles and ultrafine particles are viewed as posing the strongest risk. This document reviews literature published up to November 2008 on the potential health effects from workplace exposure to engineered nanomaterials. Currently, standardized in vivo studies are seen as the best way to detect nanomaterial toxicity, but further research and standardization are needed. Published handling guidelines for nanomaterials emphasize minimizing exposure according to the precautionary principle, using techniques such as wearing filtering masks to protect against airborne particles. Occupational protection from nanomaterials is the responsibility of several EU directives, including REACH. These directives are being examined to ensure that they appropriately regulate nanomaterials in a safe manner. Future priorities for occupational safety include measurements of nanomaterial exposure, measurements of protective measure efficacy, in vivo studies, validation of in vitro methods and physico-chemical properties for determining health effects, and adequate training of workers. |