In the realm of work, WorCover Queensland acknowledges nanotechnology as the manipulation of matter at the atomic and molecular level. This involves dealing with structures of approximately 100 nanometres or smaller, showcasing its potential to usher in various materials and products across fields like medicine, electronics, and energy production.
Nanotechnology encompasses the design, characterization, production, and application of structures, devices, and systems by meticulously controlling shape and size at the nanometre scale. This involves the manufacture of nanoparticles or nanomaterials, where at least one dimension is less than 100 nanometres, imparting them with beneficial chemical, physical, electrical, or optical properties.
To grasp the scale, consider that a standard office paper is about 100,000 nm thick, and a pinhead can accommodate around 1 million nanoparticles. In comparison, a single strand of hair measures about 50,000 nm in thickness.
Given the minute size and distinctive features of engineered nanomaterials, concerns have emerged regarding potential implications for human health and safety. This highlights the need for a careful and thorough understanding of nanotechnology's effects in the context of occupational settings.
What laws apply
Does workplace hazardous chemicals legislation apply to engineered nanoparticles?
Are nanoparticles dangerous?
A cautious approach should be applied to nanotechnology process as there is insufficient information regarding the health effects of nanomaterials and uncertainty about whether nanomaterials should be classified as hazardous chemicals.
Nanotechnology in the workplace
Eight steps must be used for assessing and managing the potential risks from nanomaterials and engineered nanoparticles
Classification of engineered nanomaterials
Manufacturers and importers must ensure that their nanomaterials are classified according to hazardous chemicals (hazardous substances/dangerous goods) classification criteria.
Definitions
A list of definitions describing the meaning of various nanotechnology terms.
Risks of nanoparticles
To manage the risks of nanoparticles, employers need to understand the hazardous properties of products which contain engineered nanomaterials, potential for exposure to engineered nanomaterials which may be harmful, and effectiveness of workplace controls to either prevent or minimise exposure.
Assessment tool for handling engineered nanomaterials
An assessment tool developed for Australian organisations handling engineered nanomaterials.
Nanomaterial control banding risk assessment
To assist with risk management, a Nanomaterial control banding tool worksheet document has been developed by Workplace Health and Safety Queensland based upon a nanomaterial control banding approach.
Register of nanomaterial use and storage
A register must be maintained if the nanomaterial is classified as a hazardous chemical according to Work Health and Safety Regulations.