Development of a Control Banding Tool for Nanomaterials

M Riediker,P Troisfontaine,J Triolet,D Vernez,N Thieriet,C Ostiguy,G Bourdel,A Cadène

doi:10.1155/2012/879671

Abstract

Control banding (CB) can be a useful tool for managing the potential risks of nanomaterials. The here proposed CB, which should be part of an overall risk control strategy, groups materials by hazard and emission potential. The resulting decision matrix proposes control bands adapted to the risk potential levels and helps define an action plan. If this plan is not practical and financially feasible, a full risk assessment is launched. The hazard banding combines key concepts of nanomaterial toxicology: translocation across biological barriers, fibrous nature, solubility, and reactivity. Already existing classifications specific to the nanomaterial can be used “as is.” Otherwise, the toxicity of bulk or analogous substances gives an initial hazard band, which is increased if the substance is not easily soluble or if it has a higher reactivity than the substance. The emission potential bands are defined by the nanomaterials' physical form and process characteristics. Quantities, frequencies, and existing control measures are taken into account during the definition of the action plan. Control strategies range from room ventilation to full containment with expert advice. This CB approach, once validated, can be easily embedded in risk management systems. It allows integrating new toxicity data and needs no exposure data.

Highlights

Nanomaterials are materials with external structures in the nanoscale, namely, between 1 and 100 nm [1]
The current occupational exposure limits (OELs) are mostly defined for dusts which are in the micrometer range at the workplace
These values are not necessarily appropriate when applied to manufactured nanomaterials (MNM)

Summary

Introduction

Nanomaterials are materials with external structures in the nanoscale, namely, between 1 and 100 nm [1]. Control Banding (CB) is an established method to conduct a qualitative risk assessment and to take measures to protect workers It was developed in the pharmaceutical industry to ensure the safety of workers applying processes using products for which little information was available. These new products were allocated to “bands,” mainly defined according to the hazard level of known products similar to those used, taking into account the assessment of exposure at the work place. The aim of the here presented study was the development of an operational CB approach for small to large enterprises using a hazard classification that is based on few, very fundamental physicochemical and toxicological properties of nanomaterials It was already published in the form of a report [22]. Classifying MNMs in these hazard bands will provide producers and users of these substances with input data for risk management according to control levels, or “Control Banding”

The Proposed Control Banding Approach

Rational

Outlook