NANOMATERIALS: OCCUPATIONALLY HEALTHY AND SAFE FOR WORKERS?

Abstract

This review describes identified health risks, toxicity/scientific findings; general characteristics of nanomaterials, worker’s exposure to nanomaterials, exposure routes, and aims to give a perspective about risk of occupational disease in terms of Occupational Health and Safety. Studies based on experimental tools indicate for a specific bio-reactivity of nanoparticles associated with the high chemical surface reactivity because of nano dimensions and nanoparticles present potential hazards to humans.
An appropriate risk management, risk assessment and toxicity assessment are needed to protect employees. Inhalation exposure, dermal and other potential routes of exposure to nanoparticles should be assessed. To mention an occupational illness, it should be clinically proven that is result of an exposure of any spesific nanomaterial in the working area within required times. In this context, more epidemiological, vivo/in vitro and toxicological studies are needed to shed light on. Even tough there is not enough evidence for any occupational illness, it can be said that directly/indirectly new legislations on possible occupational diseases in the regulations of countries will take place or be nedded to protect workers against nanomateral exposures.