Nanotechnology: Do traditional OSH concepts fit to innovative materials?

Introduction
In nanotechnology new materials with modified physical and chemical properties are designed according to the principles of quantum chemistry for atoms and molecules at the surface of a solid. More and more nanomaterials are introduced into industrial production. A discussion on putative novel health risks has been started. Public awareness concentrates on a possible mobility of ultrafine particles in the body and the consequences for human health. What's the responsibility of OSH professionals and physicians in risk assessment and management for nanomaterials?

Methods
In 2007 three German governmental research institutions (Federal Environmental Agency-UBA, Federal Institute for Risk Assessment-BfR, Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health - BAuA) have launched a joint strategy for safety research on nanomaterials. BAuA has focused on the characterisation and toxicity of nanomaterials, strategies for exposure measurements and application of the EU precautionary principle in OSH. Incoming results from more than 50 projects offer the opportunity to draw first conclusions.

Results
Attention has to be drawn on the generation of nanomaterial dusts at workplaces. If the dusts contain respirable and biopersistent fibers, carcinogenic properties must be taken into account. Granular biopersistent particles lead to inflammation in the deep airways, in some cases a specific chemical toxicity of a nanomaterial must be considered. Experimental data demonstrate that dusts from nanomaterials generally consist of aggregates and agglomerates. Recent data also show that there is no significant de-agglomeration after inhalation. The established measures for the reduction of dust formation at workplaces and personal protective equipment work well with nanomaterials, too.

Discussion
As for many other chemicals there are relevant data gaps on human health risks from nanomaterials. It seems that application of the precautionary principle and the established safety measures to reduce dust formation serve as a solid basis for health protection in OSH.