Nanotechnology: 10 Critical Topic Areas

10 Critical Topic Areas

NIOSH has identified 10 critical topic areas to guide in addressing knowledge gaps, developing strategies, and providing recommendations.

Each topic provides a brief description of the research that NIOSH is conducting in the area of nanotechnology and the applications and implications of nanomaterials in the workplace.

Investigating and determining the physical and chemical properties (ex: size, shape, solubility) that influence the potential toxicity of nanoparticles
Evaluating short and long-term effects that nanomaterials may have in organ systems and tissues (ex: lungs)
Determining biological mechanisms for potential toxic effects
Creating and integrating models to assist in assessing possible hazards
Determining if a measure other than mass is more appropriate for determining toxicity

Determining the likelihood that current exposure-response data (human or animal) could be used in identifying and assessing potential occupational hazards
Developing a framework for evaluating potential hazards and predicting potential occupational risk of exposure to nanomaterials.

Evaluating existing epidemiological workplace studies where nanomaterials are used
Identifying knowledge gaps where epidemiological studies could advance understanding of nanomaterials and evaluating the likelihood of conducting new studies
Integrating nanotechnology health and safety issues into existing hazard surveillance methods and determining whether additional screening methods are needed
Using existing systems to share data and information about nanotechnology

Evaluating the effectiveness of engineering controls in reducing occupational exposures to nanoaerosols and developing new controls where needed
Evaluating and improving current personal protective equipment
Developing recommendations to prevent or limit occupational exposures (ex: respirator fit testing)
Evaluating suitability of control banding techniques where additional information is needed; and evaluating the effectiveness of alternative materials

Evaluating methods of measuring mass of respirable particles in the air and determining if this measurement can be used to measure nanomaterials
Developing and field-testing practical methods to accurately measure airborne nanomaterials in the workplace
Developing testing and evaluation systems to compare and validate sampling instruments

Determining key factors that influence the production, dispersion, accumulation, and re-entry of nanomaterials into the workplace
Assessing possible exposure when nanomaterials are inhaled or settle on the skin
Determining how possible exposures differ by work process
Determining what happens to nanomaterials once they enter the body

Identifying physical and chemical properties that contribute to dustiness, combustibility, flammability, and conductivity of nanomaterials.
Recommending alternative work practices to eliminate or reduce workplace exposures to nanoparticles.

Using the best available science to make interim recommendations for workplace safety and health practices during the production and use of nanomaterials
Evaluating and updating occupational exposure limits for mass-based airborne particles to ensure good continuing precautionary practices
Providing guidance and publications to help provide information on the best available science for nanomaterials

Establishing partnerships and collaborations to allow for identification and sharing of research needs, approaches, and results
Developing and disseminating training and educational materials to workers and health and safety professionals

Identifying uses of nanotechnology for application in occupational safety and health
Evaluating and disseminating effective applications to workers and occupational safety and health professionals

Page last reviewed: March 29, 2018

Content source: National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health

Nanotechnology: 10 Critical Topic Areas

10 Critical Topic Areas

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