Nanoparticles are those at dimensions between approximately 1 and 100 nanometers (nm)”. A nanometer is one billionth of a meter, which is near‐atomic scale. Lab personnel working with unbound nanoparticles may be exposed to hazardous materials via inhalation, skin contact, or ingestion.
Given the various methods for nanoparticle synthesis and differing experimental goals at the University of Kentucky, a risk assessment shall be completed for the work, lab ventilation and containment equipment verified, and other controls designed for the processes specific to the research lab.
If laboratory procedures involve the synthesis of nanomaterials, please contact labsafety@uky.edu so that facility ventilation and engineering controls may be evaluated. In workplaces where workers will be exposed to nanomaterials, the employer shall provide information and training to their workers. This information and training should include at least the following:
UK has developed guidelines for research involving nanomaterials. These guidelines closely follow NIOSH’s suggested exposure control procedures. Controlling exposures for nanomaterials is much the same as for any particulate. Since the toxicological data are somewhat limited, controls may be more stringent than they would be for a similar material in the non‐nano size range. The following is a general description of what considerations will be made for processes and laboratory specific SOP.
gloves have been tested by the manufacture for protection against nanomaterials. When nanomaterials are in suspension, the solvent will dictate the glove material. General compatible glove material information can be found in the UK Chemical Hygiene Plan (CHP) or for assistance on glove material compatibility contact the specific glove manufacturer or contact UK Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) at 257‐3827.
CDC General Safe Practices for Working with Engineered Nanomaterials in Research Laboratories
NIOSH Workplace Design Solutions: Protecting Workers during Nanomaterial Reactor Operations
NIOSH Approaches to Safe Nanotechnology: Managing the Health and Safety Concerns Associated with Engineered Nanomaterials
NNI Resources for Nanotechnology Laboratory Safety
ACS Nanotechnology Safety Resources
AIHA PPE for for Engineered Nanoparticles