In the realm of engineered nanomaterials classification, it falls upon manufacturers and importers to ensure adherence to hazardous chemicals classification criteria (pertaining to hazardous substances/dangerous goods).

Consideration must be given by manufacturers and importers to determine if their products containing engineered nanomaterials exhibit characteristics such as being carcinogenic, mutagenic, very toxic, toxic, harmful, sensitizing, irritant, asthma-inducing, or if they possess other adverse health effects. Additionally, they need to evaluate if these materials are corrosive, explosive, flammable, spontaneously combustible, or have a National Exposure Standard assigned.

Compliance with the Queensland Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 (the regulation) is imperative for manufacturers and importers whose nanomaterials meet the hazardous chemicals criteria. This includes adherence to safety data sheets and labels.

The classification criteria play a pivotal role in identifying health and/or physicochemical hazards. This identification facilitates the preparation of pertinent safety data sheets and labels for products deemed hazardous. It's noteworthy that the regulation encompasses all hazardous chemicals, irrespective of size, shape, or physical state, making no specific provisions for nanomaterials.

Nanomaterials with distinct properties may necessitate different classification and labeling compared to bulk materials. The behaviors and effects of substances at a nanoscale hinge on characteristics like size, shape, number concentration, surface area, charge, and overall surface reactivity. Consequently, the classification of substances should factor in these characteristics.

Given the limited understanding of nanomaterial characteristics, hazard assessment should be approached on a case-by-case basis. In instances where specific test guidelines for nanoscale substances are lacking, toxicity testing should be conducted following existing guidelines. Manufacturers and suppliers are encouraged to employ the classification criteria alongside regulations to manage workplace hazardous chemicals. Employers and workers, reliant on chemicals in the workplace, can discern hazardous chemicals through supplier labels and safety data sheets.

For further information on the process of classifying hazardous chemicals, individuals can contact Safe Work Australia at 02 6121 5317.