| Activity types, by Risk of Exposure |
Primary Control Measures |
Low Probability:
- Non-destructive handling of solid nanoparticle composites or nanoparticles permanently bonded to a substrate
|
- Disposable nitrile or PVC gloves. Do not reuse gloves.
- Wet cleaning procedures and/or HEPA vacuum for surfaces/equipment.
|
Medium / High Probability:
- Working w/ nanomaterials in liquid media during pouring or mixing, or where a high degree of agitation is involved (e.g., sonication)
- Handling nanostructured powders*
- High speed abrading/grinding nano-composite materials
- Maintenance on equipment used to produce nanomaterials
- Cleaning of dust collection systems used to capture nanoparticles
|
- Conduct task within a fully enclosed system (e.g., glovebox), or fume hood
- Disposable gloves appropriate for the solvent in which the particles are suspended. Do not reuse gloves.
- Safety eyewear (+ face shield if splash potential exists)
- Wet cleaning procedures for surfaces/equipment
|
High Probability:
- Generating nanoparticles in the gas phase or in aerosol (spill or liquid)
- Manipulation of nanoparticles in gas stream
|
-
Work in enclosed systems only (e.g., glovebox, glovebag, or sealed chamber).
|
* EH&S recognizes that low-density nanomaterials (e.g., carbon-based) become aerosolized by even the slightest air movement and may not be practical when weighed or handled in laboratory fume hoods. Consult with EH&S on alternative sets of controls.
