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Nanotechnology and Occupational Health and Safety

 
Images - Courtesy of CSIRO

Nanotechnology is the precision-engineering of materials at the scale of 10 ^-9 metres at which point unique properties occur. These properties have led to the development of new products, procedures and processes that will transform various industries. Many valuable uses of enabling nanotechnologies have already been identified.

It has also been acknowledged that the unique properties associated with engineered nanomaterials may give rise to health and safety concerns in some circumstances. Accordingly, DEEWR is providing policy direction, conducting research and providing guidance on the potential occupational safety and health implications from applications of nanotechnology. 

The nanotechnology OHS research program focuses on understanding:

1. Possible effects that engineered nanoparticles might have on human health
2. Potential exposure in the occupational use of engineered nanomaterials
3. Effective prevention of occupational exposure to engineered nanoparticles

National Nanotechnology Strategy

The National Nanotechnology Strategy (NNS) aims to establish the environment that allows Australia to capture benefits of nanotechnology while addressing the issues impacting on successful and responsible development of nanotechnology. It complements other Australian Government initiatives (for example, CSIRO Niche Manufacturing Flagship) and existing research, innovation and industry policies that promote the development of enabling technologies and facilitate greater coordination of policies affecting nanotechnology. The NNS includes specific initiatives to:

• address the health safety and environmental (HSE) impacts of nanotechnology on regulations and standards;
• undertake a public awareness and engagement program to provide balanced advice on nanotechnology;
• establish a nanoparticle metrology capability at the National Measurement Institute; and
• facilitate a whole of government approach to nanotechnology through establishing the Australian Office of Nanotechnology.

The current NNS will cease in June 2009.

In support of the National Nanotechnology Strategy, a Nanotechnology OHS Program has been developed.