"Not as hotly eaten as cooked"

Nanomaterials are used in various sectors, for example in the chemical industry, cosmetics manufacturing, tire production and the food industry. The tiny particles are often smaller than 100 nanometers and have unique properties that make them interesting for numerous applications.

"The problem with nanomaterials is very specific, the number of workplaces affected is not that high," says Carsten Möhlmann, a research associate at the DGUV who deals with nanomaterials, among other things, in the area of hazardous substance exposure. Accordingly, there is no specific monitoring of the handling of these materials in Switzerland.

However, even if the problem is manageable, it has not been conclusively clarified how nanomaterials affect the health of those who work with them. The precautionary principle therefore applies to all nanomaterials. This requires that substances with an unknown hazard potential are treated in the same way as substances that are hazardous to health.

Workplace risks and potential hazards

Studies on the health effects of nanomaterials on employees have so far been limited. However, studies indicate that there are risks in the absence of protective measures. However, there are no specific limit values for nanomaterials that go beyond the general Ordinance on Hazardous Substances.

Health risks and scientific findings

In recent years, there has been increasing discussion about the health risks of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) in particular. These materials could have a similar effect to asbestos, as they are not easily broken down by the body due to their shape and size. Suva warns that these particles "should not become the asbestos of tomorrow". Studies on animals show that carbon nanotubes can trigger inflammation and other harmful reactions in mice. So caution is advised.

Protective measures in the workplace

To minimize exposure to nanomaterials, the STOP principle applies:

Substitution: Substances that are toxic or create too much dust should be replaced where possible.

Technical measures: This includes closed production systems, extraction systems and filters to prevent direct exposure.

Organizational measures: Working hours in high-risk areas should be limited in time and interrupted by breaks to minimize exposure.

Personal protective equipment (PPE): Respiratory masks (such as FFP3) and protective clothing are essential to prevent inhalation and direct contact with nanoparticles. To ensure that the masks fit properly, employers should offer different sizes and models.

As nanoparticles are smaller and lighter than many other substances, the filtration systems must be specially designed to reliably capture these particles.

Challenge for SMEs

While large companies usually have the necessary expertise and resources to ensure the safe handling of nanomaterials, this is more of a challenge for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). "There is often a lack of maintenance measures. For example, the extraction systems need to be checked regularly and the filters cleaned. In addition, fresh material such as gloves, masks and protective clothing must always be provided," says Möhlmann. If you consistently apply the standard measures, you can already achieve a lot. But the expert also gives the all-clear: "The issue is not as hot as it is cooked."

Regulation and monitoring

In Switzerland, there are currently no specific legal regulations or limit values for nanomaterials in the workplace. Health protection is ensured by general ordinances such as the Labor Act and the Accident Insurance Act. However, as part of the National Action Plan on Synthetic Nanomaterials (2008-2019), various tools have been developed to support industry and commerce in the safe handling of nanomaterials. These tools can be viewed on the website of the action plan, infonano.ch.

This article first appeared in issue 5 of save.