ASTM International

Standard Guide for Handling Unbound Engineered Nanoscale Particles in Occupational Settings
 N E2535

Annotation

This guide describes actions that could be taken by the user to minimize human exposures to unbound, engineered nanoscale particles (UNP) in research, manufacturing, laboratory and other occupational settings where UNP may reasonably be expected to be present. It is intended to provide guidance for controlling such exposures as a cautionary measure where neither relevant exposure standards nor definitive hazard and exposure information exist.

General Guidance—This guide is applicable to occupational settings where UNP may reasonably be expected to be present. Operations across those settings will vary widely in the particular aspects relevant to nanoscale particle exposure control. UNP represent a vast variety of physical and chemical characteristics (for example, morphology, mass, dimension, chemical composition, settling velocities, surface area, surface chemistry) and circumstances of use. Given the range of physical and chemical characteristics presented by the various UNP, the diversity of occupational settings and the uneven empirical knowledge of and experience with handling UNP materials, the purpose of this guide is to offer general guidance on exposure minimization approaches for UNP based upon a consensus of viewpoints, but not to establish a standard practice nor to recommend a definite course of action to follow in all cases.

Accordingly, not all aspects of this guide may be relevant or applicable to all circumstances of UNP handling. The user should apply reasonable judgment in applying this guide including consideration of the characteristics of the particular UNP involved, the user's engineering and other experience with the material, and the particular occupational settings where the user may apply this guide. Users are encouraged to obtain the services of qualified professionals in applying this guide.