Developing Korean standard for nanomaterial exposure assessment

Abstract

Nanotechnology is now applied to many industries, resulting in wide range of nanomaterial-containingproducts, such as electronic components, cosmetic, medicines, vehicles, and home appliances. Nanoparticlescan be released throughout the life cycle of nanoproducts, including the manufacture, consumer use, and disposal, thereby involving workers, consumers, and the environment in potential exposure. However, there is no current consensus on the best sampling method for characterizing manufactured-nanoparticleexposure. Therefore, this report aims to provide a standard method for assessing nanoparticle exposure, including the identification of nanoparticle emission, the assessment of worker exposure, and the evaluationof exposure mitigation actions in nanomaterial-handling workplaces or research institutes.