Characterizing workforces exposed to current and emerging non-carbonaceous nanomaterials in the U.S.

ABSTRACT

Objective: Toxicology studies suggest that exposure to certain types of engineered nanomaterials (ENMs) may cause adverse health effects, but little is known about the workforce in the United States that produces or uses these materials. In addition, occupational exposure control strategies in this industry are not well characterized. This study identified U.S. ENM manufacturers and users (other than carbon nanotubes and nanofibers, which have been characterized elsewhere), determined workforce size, characterized types and quantities of materials used, occupational exposure control strategies, and the feasibility of occupational ENM exposure studies.

Methods: Eligible companies were identified and information was collected through phone surveys on nanomaterials produced or used, workforce size, location, work practices, and exposure control strategies. The companies were classified into groups for additional examinations.

Results: Forty-nine companies producing or using ENMs in the U.S. were identified. These companies employed at least 1,500 workers. Most companies produced or used some form of nanoscale metal. More than half of the eligible companies were suppliers for the coatings, composite materials, or general industries. Each company provided information about worker exposure reduction strategies through engineering controls, administrative controls, or personal protective equipment. Production-scale companies reported greater use of specific exposure control strategies for ENMs than laboratory-scale companies.

Conclusions: Workplaces producing or using ENMs report using engineering and administrative controls as well as personal protective equipment to control worker exposure. Industrywide exposure assessment studies appear feasible due to workforce size. However, more effort must be taken to target industries using specific ENMs based on known toxicological effects and health risks.

KEYWORDS:

• Engineered nanomaterials
• exposure assessment
• occupational health

Acknowledgments

The authors thank all the companies who voluntarily participated in the survey, Dr. Chuck Geraci and Ms. Laura Hodson for assistance in conceptualizing the project, Mr. Jeffery Shire for providing assistance in identifying companies and contact information on potentially eligible companies, and Mr. Lian Luo for developing the database used for the study. The findings and conclusions in this report are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the views of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health.

Additional information

Funding

This study was funded by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health Nanotechnology Research Center.