Office of Technical Assistance & Technology, Massachusetts Government, has released a document with the above title. As the preamble of the document says, Nanotechnology offers great promise in different industries such as biomedical devices, clean energy technology and materials engineering. Along with the promise come indications that the invisibly small nanoparticles, both incidental and engineered, can cause harm to living beings.
The particles can cause respiratory ailments through inhalation, get absorbed into the bloodstream and even pass the blood-brain barrier with potential harm to neurological system. DNA damage has been reported from exposure to titanium dioxide nanoparticles. The overall conclusion from health and safety research is that material risks may accompany the development of nanotechnologies.
It is in this context that precautionary steps during research and development become important. This has become particularly critical as billions of dollars are being invested in nanotechnology development in US alone (not to mention many other countries across the world). Focusing only on the promise and ignoring the potential for harm that these initiatives pose are things that no responsible government or entity can allow.
Studies have indicated that while many companies have implemented nanosafety practices, several others have not. It is thus necessary to create greater awareness about the issue among managers, supervisors and health & safety officers.
You can download the nanotechnology safety considerations document from Massachusetts Government website.
Tags: engineered materials, nanoparticles, nanotech health issues, nanotechnology
