Nanomaterials are materials of which a single unit is sized (in at least one dimension) between 1 and 100 nm. (ECHA) Nano chemicals are chemicals generated by using nanomaterials.
These include titanium dioxide (TiO2), carbon nanotubes (CNTs), and carbon nanofibers (CNFs). Metal oxide nanoparticles such as iron oxide; gold and silver nanoparticles are regularly used in industries from paint manufacturing to drugs to cosmetics. They can enter the body through inhalation, ingestion or through the skin. When in the body, due to their size they may be more toxic than their larger material forms as they can penetrate tissue and organs; and possibly interact with cells; proteins and carbohydrates.
Exposure to a low concentration could lead to Nano toxicity, causing health effects such as inflammation/lung problems; dermatological issues; cardiovascular and gastrointestinal diseases. Silicosis is a well-known lung disease caused by inhaling crystallised silica dust for example building sand.
Inhaling Nano silica (NS) can cause liver damage; blood viscosity; lung damage and myocardial ischemia. Nano silica is used in the construction industry to reduce the quantity of cement and increase the compactness of concrete. Zinc and zinc oxide are considered relatively safe substances, but Nano-zinc can lead to liver; kidney and skin damage as well cytotoxicity and mitochondrial dysfunction. However, not enough is yet known about the effects of all engineered nanomaterials, especially over long-term exposure.
Therefore, nanotechnology is an important new area where Health & Safety professionals have to look at (material safety data sheets) (Coshh assessments have these entries), and assess these risks
. A problem with measuring NMs is that there is no single commercial device yet invented to adequately identify specific engineered nanomaterials (ENMs). Several instruments and sampling methods are required. Professional assistance may be required to properly identify the nanomaterials, and their potential to cause harm. Some like HARNS with a high aspect ratio are considered more dangerous than others and have to be risk assessed as such.
The hierarchy of controls should be used, and the use of engineering and administrative controls before the use of PPE. The HSA recommends engineering controls including total enclosure of the process and containment controls. Administrative controls include reducing the number of employees exposed and the time they are exposed to the NMs; training and good housekeeping.
Occupational Health professionals have to keep up to date on current research into these materials so that they educate themselves on the potential hazards, as well as the recommended control measures to put in place so that they can safeguard their employees as well as their business and reputation.
Please read our article about COSHH
