Exposure control measures proposed by different organizations: The curious case of nanomaterials-involved activities.

INTRODUCTION: The unique properties of nanomaterials have turned them into an emerging threat for human and the environment. So, the aim of this study was to review exposure control measures proposed for nanomaterials-involved activities.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study is based on the published guidelines of different organizations on safe handling of nanomaterials. Search for documents was provided using "Exposure controls", "Good practices", "Working safely", "Safe practices", " Handling safely", "Safety guide", and "Safety and health", combined with "Nanomaterials", "Nanotechnology", and "Nanoparticles" keywords on different databases and websites.

RESULTS: 31 guidelines from 27 organizations were included. Most of the guidelines recommended engineering controls, administrative controls and personal protective equipment (PPE). Changing the physical form of nanomaterials or the process, using prevention through design (PtD) and using green chemistry principals were other suggestions to reduce exposure to nanomaterials.

CONCLUSIONS: Considering the difficulty of implementation and case-specificity of the solutions of the first two priorities of the hierarchy of controls (elimination and substitution), the emphasis of the guidelines on the next three priorities for controlling exposure to nanomaterials is understood. The type and way of using PPE and engineering controls should be resolved by referring to cutting edge papers.