OSHA Releases New Fact Sheet: Working Safely with Nanomaterials

April 12, 2013- OSHA released a new fact sheet for employers and their workers who handle nanomaterials on how to manage such materials safely.

The fact sheet offers the latest information on potential hazards tied to the exposure to nanomaterials in the workplace. It also outlines measures and best practices for controlling workers’ exposure.

There are not many occupational exposure limits for nanomaterials, and existing limits may not provide enough protection. But based on NIOSH’s recommended exposure limits, OSHA suggests that exposure to respirable carbon nanotubes and nanofibers not exceed 7.0 micrograms per cubic meter, as an eight-hour time-weighted average. OSHA also recommends that worker exposure to nanoscale titanium dioxide (TiO₂) not exceed 0.3 milligrams per cubic meter.

Potential safety hazards of nanomaterials include:

Titanium dioxide, which has many commercial applications (paint, paper, cosmetics, food), and can be produced in various sizes, including on the nanoscale. They have higher potency than larger particles, and inhalation should be considered a possible carcinogen.                                                                                   

Inhaled nanoparticles may deposit in the respiratory tract and may cause inflammation   and damage to lung tissues.

OSHA urges employers to use a combination of methods to control potential exposures to nanomaterials, including engineering controls, administrative controls, protective equipment, and medical screening and surveillance. It’s important to work with nanomaterials in ventilated enclosures with high-efficiency particulate air filters (HEPA) filters. Employers also should provide hand-washing facilities, procedures to address cleanup, and protective equipment such as respirators, gloves and proper clothing.

Companies that work with nanotech materials include: chemical or pharmaceutical plants, manufacturing facilities, medical offices or hospitals and construction sites. Employers should check with chemical manufacturers to determine if nanomaterials are present. The potential for nanomaterials to pose health hazards is greater if they are not contained or are easily dispersed (such as in powders or sprays).

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