Nanomaterials are a concern for a variety of workers and business owners, from construction to janitorial services
Defined as objects that are less than 100 nanometers in diameter, nanomaterials are found in cosmetics, cement, paints, fabrics and electronics. Nanomaterials in dust or mist can easily be inhaled and absorbed.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration, or OSHA, says workplaces that may use nanomaterials include chemical or pharmaceutical labs or plants, manufacturing facilities, medical offices or hospitals and construction sites.
Consider the following ideas for staying safe with nanomaterials, and consult your city and state laws and guidelines for more information.
* Wear a respirator. Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter and/or use a wet method to control dust. Avoid compressed air and dry sweeping.
* Use personal protective equipment (PPE)
* Work in well ventilated spaces with HEPA filters
The World Health Organization published a 96-page guide about nanoparticle safety in 2017 and recommended assessing health hazards of various manufactured nanomaterials (MNMs), risks related to exposure and controlling exposures.
Rick Good spent ten years in the newspaper business, including with The News & Observer (Raleigh, NC) and The Greenville News (Greenville, SC). He co-wrote, with Melinda Coleman, Rutledge to Riley: Governors of South Carolina, 1776–Present (Published by The Greenville News), and is the author of Mind Games Trivia #1 (Amazon). He has recently spent 15 years creating original trivia content through Sounds Good Mobile Entertainment and continues that with his new company, SGME Software. He edits The Smart Reader’s money, real estate, and business coverage.