Guidance on the safety of some nanomaterials

Safe Work Australia Chair Ann Sherry AO has released two research reports examining nanotechnology work health and safety issues.

The reports: ‘Investigating the emissions of nanomaterials from composites and other solid articles during machining process’ and ‘Evaluation of potential safety (physicochemical) hazards associated with the use of engineered nanomaterials’ are part of a comprehensive program of work on nanotechnology safety managed by Safe Work Australia which started in 2007.

Many valuable uses of nanotechnologies have been identified, for example in improved materials, electronics, the environment and health care. However, the properties associated with engineered nanomaterials may give rise to health and safety concerns in some circumstances.

In releasing the reports, Sherry noted the perceived safety risks of nanomaterials and that a precautionary approach is being taken by the Commonwealth towards nanomaterials under the National Enabling Technologies Strategy.

“While the risk to human health and safety from a number of these materials and applications is low, some nanomaterials are potentially more hazardous, for example, carbon nanotubes,” Sherry said.

“The National Industrial Chemicals Notification and Assessment Scheme (NICNAS) has recommended carbon nanotubes be classified as suspected carcinogens unless product-specific evidence suggests otherwise.”

Under the model Work Health and Safety (WHS) laws, all duties which apply to the handling of materials and to technologies in general also apply to nanomaterials and nanotechnologies. Minimisation of exposure to nanomaterials at work is essential until there is sufficient data to rule out hazardous properties. Research has shown if conventional engineering controls are designed and maintained effectively, exposure to nanomaterials can be significantly reduced.

As a result of the findings of these reports, Safe Work Australia will prepare guidance material on combustible dust hazards including nanomaterials.