2006 asse teleweb presentation
-
Upload
ahmad-rashwan -
Category
Technology
-
view
737 -
download
0
Transcript of 2006 asse teleweb presentation
Managing Uncertainty
Addressing the Issue of SH&E Management and Nanotechnology
Presented by Robert C. Adams, MS, CIH, CSP
ENVIRON International Corporation
Princeton NJ
Managing Uncertainty
2
Overview
Nanotechnology Background
The Media and Nanotechnology
The Good News
The (Potential) Bad News
Regulatory Status
Considerations for Best Management Practices
Managing Uncertainty
3
Nanotechnology Background
Nanotechnology Nanotechnology is the understanding and control of matter at
dimensions of roughly 1 to 100 nanometers In perspective; a nanometer is to a meter what a dime is to planet
Earth Nanotechnology involves imaging, measuring, modeling, and
manipulating matter in this scale
Nanomaterial Any material that has some dimension in the nanoscale (< 100 nm) Examples:
• Nanoparticles• Nanowire and Nanotubes• Nanocoating and Nanolayers• Quantum Dots• Nanoshells
Managing Uncertainty
4
Nanotechnology Background
Managing Uncertainty
5
Nanotechnology Background
Nanoparticles follow the laws of quantum physics The physics of the incredibly small The classical laws of physics breakdown at this scale Quantum physics describes how these materials can assume
different physical, optical, electrical or magnetic properties
Engineered nanoparticles are intentionally produced
Natural nanoparticles exist as a result of combustion processes Welding or diesel fume are two examples Mechanical processes are not able to produce particles in this
range
Managing Uncertainty
6
Nanotechnology Background
Macro particles have physical properties that are well known and understood
At the nanoscale this is generally not the case – the properties are different and that gives rise to the interest in these materials Copper nanoparticles smaller than 50 nm are considered super hard
materials that do not exhibit the same malleability and ductility as larger forms of copper.
Nanoparticles have greater ratio of surface area to mass Greater reactivity and more adsorption capacity than with macro
substances• In environmental remediation, increased adsorption capacity of
nanomaterials for some volatile organic compounds such as toluene has been demonstrated
Managing Uncertainty
7
The Media and Nanotechnology
Nanotechnology Regulation Needed, Critics Say
December 5, 2005
Study Raises Concerns About Carbon Particles
March 29, 2004
ASSESSING RISKS; Technology's Future: A Look at the Dark Side
May 17, 2006
The promise and perils of the nanotech revolution;Possibilities range from disaster to advances in medicine, space
July 26, 2004
Solar Energy Nanotechnology Can Replace Fossil FuelsJuly 11, 2005
Managing Uncertainty
8
The Media and Nanotechnology
“Magic Nano” Aerosol spray treatment to make glass/ceramic
water and dirt repellent Around 100 consumers reported respiratory
difficulties TUV Sued stamp "Production Inspected,
Safety Approved” used on product without approval
Product withdrawn from marketplace Implications
• Galvanizes groups opposed to nanotechnology• Hurts small business and startup sectors of
nanotechnology
DID NOT CONTAIN NANOMATERIALS
Managing Uncertainty
9
THE GOOD NEWS!
The immense economic impact: NSF estimates a $1 Trillion market by 2015 Lux Research estimates a $1 Trillion market by 2011-2012 for
nanotechnology-enabled products Rand estimates that revenues have already surpassed $10
billion
The potential for the development of advanced products that will have a remarkable impact on everyday life: Improved optics, electronics, and optoelectronics New medical imaging and treatment technologies Production of advanced materials for high-efficiency energy
storage and generation
Managing Uncertainty
10
Nanotechnology Facts
National Nanotechnology Initiative (NNI) was started in 2000 by President Clinton
Since 2000, the federal government has allocated over $2 billion for nanotechnology research
$480 million of venture capital went into nanotechnology startups in 2005 United Press International
Managing Uncertainty
11
Predicted Growth
$15 billion annual investment predicted within 10 years
50% of all products produced will be influenced by nano within 10 years
Employment in the nanotechnology sector is expected to grow to 2 million workers within the next decade (US Department of Labor)
Managing Uncertainty
12
Applications for Nanoparticles
Nanotechnology is still in the “pre-competitive” stage but… Nanoparticle research continues to receive intense scientific study,
due to a wide variety of potential applications in biomedical, optical, and electronic fields
New material discoveries will spur further growth
Nanoparticles are here now! Bumpers on cars Paints and coatings Stain-free clothing and mattresses Burn and wound dressings Ink Protective and glare-reducing coatings for eyeglasses and
windshields Metal-cutting tools Sunscreens and cosmetics Longer-lasting tennis balls and light-weight, stronger tennis racquets
Managing Uncertainty
13
Consumer Benefit
One current application is the use of silver nanoparticles which can kill micro-organisms • Used on refrigerators and washing machines • Helps to ensure food will stay fresh for a very long time
and clothes are cleaned thoroughly
Managing Uncertainty
14
Nanotechnology and the Battle Against Cancer
Nanoscale devices can serve as customizable, targeted drug delivery vehicles capable of sending large doses of anticancer agents into malignant cells without harming healthy cells
Overcome the many barriers that the body uses against traditional interventions
National Cancer Institute
Managing Uncertainty
15
First Two Generations of Nanoproducts
Passive nanomaterials (most current) Constant properties/functions Products are components (wires, nanotubes, etc.) Examples include coatings, dispersions, patterns and bulk
materials
Active nanomaterials (today to 10-years) Changes states during operation Products are devices (molecular machines, targeted drugs,
transistors, etc.) Examples include sensors, energy storage devices,
nanoelectromechanical systems
Nanosystems (multiple interactive structures – future!)
Managing Uncertainty
16
The (Potential) Bad News
Do engineered nanomaterials pose unique work-related health risks?
In what ways might employees be exposed to nanomaterials in manufacture and use?
In what ways might nanomaterials enter the body during those exposures?
Once in the body, where would the nanomaterials travel, and how would they interact physiologically and chemically with the body’s systems?
Will those interactions be harmless, or could they cause acute or chronic adverse effects?
What are appropriate methods for measuring and controlling exposures to nanometer-diameter particles and nanomaterials in the workplace?
NIOSH Position Statement on Nanotechnology
Managing Uncertainty
17
The (Potential) Bad News
NGOs like ETC Group continue to call for a moratorium on the use of nanotechnology in products until more research is available on the safety and toxicity of these materials
October 17, 2005, RAND Corporation meeting with stakeholders identifies concerns among industry, government, labor and academia Knowledge gaps related to health risks may create liabilities that
could stymie the development of beneficial new nanomaterials E orts to address the occupational risks are being impeded by ff
shortfalls in fundamental scientific knowledge Resources allocated to occupational health and environmental risks
are not keeping pace with development of new nanomaterials Cooperation between the public and private sectors is needed
Managing Uncertainty
18
Ethics in Nanotechnology
The difficulty is that the potential toxicity of nano-engineered particles is subject to scientific uncertainty in a very fundamental way. Indeed the very definition of the toxicity of these particles is problematic. Furthermore, there are no clear views on how this toxicity, if defined, could be scientifically and indisputably tested. Finally, there are no scientific studies on the toxicity of many particles. One of the issues could be that such a toxicity may be slow to manifest itself, as was the case for asbestos. Therefore, the question of the applicability of the precautionary principle would need to be studied and discussed, and scientific uncertainty should not lead to skip the necessary debate. In this connection, issues of risk analysis and standardization require in-depth ethical, and not only scientific, consideration.
Outline of a Policy Advice on Nanotechnologies and EthicsUNESCO 6-7 December 2005
Managing Uncertainty
19
Managing Uncertainty
The Bottom Line RemainsCan we achieve the promises of nanotechnology
while minimizing potential risks? But we must also ask
Will nanotechnology development be permitted to go forward amid the calls to halt its
development?and
Will we be able to manage the ethical and scientific issues that nanotechnology will
present?
Managing Uncertainty
20
Health Risks
“Nanotechnology is an emerging field. As such, there are many uncertainties as to whether the unique properties of engineered nanomaterials (which underpin their commercial potential) also pose occupational health risks.”
NIOSH
Managing Uncertainty
21
Potential Exposures to Nanoparticles
The exposure route of primary interest remains inhalation Where the nanoparticles deposit in the lung will be a significant
factor in the development of health effects
Ingestion of nanoparticles is also a concern Little is known about possible adverse effects from the
ingestion of nanoparticles
The potential for direct penetration through the skin has been reported Some laboratory studies have suggested that carbon
nanotubes can be absorbed and deposited in skin cells and potentially induce cellular toxicity
Managing Uncertainty
22
Effect of Particle Size
Equivalent dose of smaller particles presentsa much larger surface area for reactions to take place
Potential for generation of free oxygen radicals DNA damage inflammation tissue damage cancer?
100 g Iron:
diameter = 3.0 cm
Surface area = 26 cm2
100 g Iron:
diameter = 50 nm
Surface area = 1,500 m2
Managing Uncertainty
23
Other Factors Affecting Toxicity
Coatings Hydrophilic surface coating on TiO2 induced greater
inflammatory response than hydrophobic coating
Chemistry Certain nanomaterials may contain varying types and levels of
metals used as catalysts Differences in toxicity of various nanotubes that have different
metal contents
Structure or shape C60 Fullerenes are more reactive than carbon particles or
carbon nanotubes
Managing Uncertainty
24
Direct Transport to Brain?
RatRatLatex Microspheres, Latex Microspheres,
UF carbon, Mn,UF carbon, Mn,but not Ironbut not Iron
MonkeyMonkeyViruses, UF Gold. MnViruses, UF Gold. Mn
FishFishMn, FullerenesMn, Fullerenes
HumanHumanMn Fume? Mn Fume?
DrugsDrugs
Managing Uncertainty
25
Dermal Penetration?
Lack of dermal penetration for nano TiO2; few studies report dermal penetration
Penetration of 0.5-1.0 µM-sized fluorospheres and Be sensitization in human skin – flexing experiments
Oxidative stress, toxicity, and loss of viability of human skin cells - HaCaT cells - carbon nanotubes
Reactivity with sunlight?
Managing Uncertainty
26
The Bottom Line
Existing toxicity information can provide a baseline for anticipating the possible adverse health effects that may occur from exposure to nanoparticles
Not possible to set health protective limits without assumptions about toxicity relative to that of the same macro-scale material
NIOSH
Managing Uncertainty
27
Toxicity Data Gaps Remain
No studies greater than 3 months duration
Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism & Excretion (ADME) studies very limited
No dose-response data
No developmental/reproductive studies
No chronic bioassays
More research needed to address the uncertainty
Managing Uncertainty
28
"New technologies introduce new occupational health and safety hazards, and nanotechnology is no exception. Materials and devices are under development are so far from our current understanding that we can not easily apply existing paradigms to protecting workers.” – Dr. John Howard (NIOSH Director)
Managing Uncertainty
29
Exposures to Nanoparticles
There are still very few studies of occupational exposures to nanoparticles
Largely due to the lack of available monitoring equipment and lack of exposure metrics for comparison
Most studies that are available are being conducted in research settings and not in industrial facilities under actual working conditions Most SHE professionals are not equipped to conduct the
monitoring that would be needed
Managing Uncertainty
30
Exposures to Nanoparticles
Situations that are likely to create significant exposures include: Working with nanomaterials without adequate protection Working with nanomaterials during pouring or mixing operations, Working with nanomaterials where there is a high degree of agitation Generating nanoparticles in the gas phase in non-enclosed systems Handling nanostructured powders could increase aerosolization Maintenance of equipment and processes used to produce or
fabricate nanomaterials Cleaning of dust collection systems can pose a potential for both skin
and inhalation exposure
These situations are not unlike the types of situations encountered in industry that historically create significant exposures
Managing Uncertainty
31
Lack of Exposure Metrics Remains
Nanoparticles may not be suitable for comparison to ‘traditional’ exposure metrics Mass based metrics may understate exposures Larger particles will mask nanoparticles
Mass and bulk chemistry are believed to be less important
Particle size, particle number and/or surface area (or reactivity) metrics are still considered to be more reliable indicators of exposure
Research is still ongoing but there is still no definite answer
Metric to be used will depend on availability of sampling equipment or instruments
Managing Uncertainty
32
Exposure Monitoring
“Until more information is available on the mechanisms underlying nanoparticle toxicity, it is uncertain as to what measurement technique should be used to monitor exposures in the workplace.”
NIOSH
Managing Uncertainty
33
Exposure Monitoring
There are limited air sampling methods or instruments Real time particle counters / particle sizers Size-fractionated aerosol sampling with impactors in the
nanoparticle range High resolution TEM Surface area estimation
NIOSH is funding research on air sampling techniques
Many instruments that are available are still limited to research (i.e.; not portable)
Managing Uncertainty
34
Condensation particle counter capable of measuring particles to 10 nm.
Source: TSI
Three stage nanoparticle cascade impactor capable of proving three particle size fractions - 32, 18 and 10 nm.
Source: MSP Corporation
Managing Uncertainty
35
Exposure Control
Prudent practice suggests that in the absence of available toxicity data, exposures to nanomaterials must be minimized
Nanoparticle behavior Behave more like gases
• migrate from areas of highest concentration
Tend to agglomerate Gravitational settling slower than macro particles Will widely disperse Can be re-suspended easily
Managing Uncertainty
36
Exposure Control
In general, control techniques such as source enclosure and local exhaust ventilation systems are considered to be effective for capturing airborne nanoparticles
Managing Uncertainty
37
Exposure Control
Challenges still remain: Effectiveness of filtration is still not confirmed
• NIOSH is conducting research to validate the efficiency of HEPA filter media
Design of hoods and enclosures have not been specified for nanoparticles
• Apply current ACGIH design criteria for the control of fine particulate matter
Capture and transport velocities have not been specified• Again, ACGIH criteria are expected to be sufficient for nanoparticle
control
Managing Uncertainty
38
Exposure Control
Respiratory protection research continues There have been no specific recommendations on the types of
respirators applicable for exposure to nanoparticles• Respirators are tested against particles around 300 nm• In theory, a respirator filter that is effective for larger particles
should be effective for the smaller scale particle– NIOSH is still undertaking studies to validate this
Nanoparticles still present the following challenges• Criticality of facial seal for negative pressure respirators• Effectiveness of positive pressure respirators• Appropriateness of fit factors or protection factors• Fit testing methods may require further improvements
Managing Uncertainty
39
Exposure Control
Dermal protection There are no current recommendations on types of clothing
that will be effective for prevention of dermal absorption No dermal exposure standards Small sized particles may penetrate traditional knit clothing
• Penetration efficiencies for nanoparticles have not been studied • Existing ASTM standards incorporate testing with nanometer-sized
particles Modern PPE materials of construction will likely provide some
protection but the efficacy of that protection is still unclear Ocular protection still presents some additional challenges and
may represent the more significant risk
Managing Uncertainty
40
Exposure Control
Good work practices can help minimize worker exposure to nanomaterials Efforts should focus on:
• Good housekeeping and maintenance programs• Good hygiene and sanitation
– Restrictions on the consumption of food and beverages in work areas
– Facilities for hand and face washing
– Facilities for showering and changing clothes
Managing Uncertainty
41
Safety Issues
Fire / Explosion/Catalytic Hazards There has been little research on the potential safety hazards
of nanoparticles From current information, concerns most likely involve catalytic
effects or fire and explosion hazards Nanoscale powders or combustible material could present a
higher risk than a similar quantity of coarser material• Increased surface area = more easily ignited?
– Nanoscale Al/MoO3 thermites ignite more than 300 times faster than corresponding micrometer-scale material
Can nanomaterials initiate catalytic reactions that would not otherwise be anticipated from their chemical composition alone?
Managing Uncertainty
42
Will Nanomaterials Behave the Same as Common Environmental Pollutants?
Likely but additional research is ongoing due to unique chemical/physical properties of nanomaterials
Fate and transport of nanomaterial releases and wastes Mobility of nanoparticles in the air, soil and water Surface chemistry of mineral oxide and carbon nanoparticles Degradation of materials containing nanoparticles Mechanisms of nanoparticle degradation Nanoparticle bioaccumulation
Applicability of technologies to control nanoparticle releases and to treat nanoparticle wastes
Managing Uncertainty
43
Regulatory Framework
A realistic regulatory framework will ultimately be needed
NIOSH is currently in the forefront on workforce matters “NIOSH is pursuing strategic, multidisciplinary research that will
help practitioners, with greater certainty, to apply the well-established principles of occupational safety and health to workplace exposures involving nanomaterials.”
“NIOSH is evaluating the unique benefits that nanotechnology may bring to improving occupational safety and health.”
Managing Uncertainty
44
NIOSH Activities on Nanotechnology
NIOSH is currently investigating the following areas (FY 2006): Survey of uses and workers involved on nanotechnology
industries Measurement studies of nanoparticles in the workplace Evaluate control banding options to reduce worker exposures Analyses of filter efficiency for nanomaterials
Nanoparticle Information Library Solicits and disseminates information on all types of
nanoparticles in products
Managing Uncertainty
45
Regulatory Framework
EPA TSCA is one of the statutes under which commercial
applications will likely be regulated Key question - Is a nanoparticle of a chemical which is
intended to impart new chemical and/or physical properties, to be considered:
• a new chemical; • a significant new use of an existing chemical; • a modified but not significant new use of an existing chemical; or • none of the above?
Managing Uncertainty
46
Regulatory Framework
Most likely, TSCA will apply at some level EPA probably will not treat nanoparticles as “new chemical
substances” EPA probably will treat each new category of nanoparticles as
a “significant new use”
Recent White Paper (December 2, 2005) Important recommendations include:
• Pollution Prevention, Stewardship, and Sustainability• Research• Risk Assessment• Collaboration and Leadership• Cross-Agency Workgroup• Training
Managing Uncertainty
47
Recent Developments in TSCA
Natural Resources Defense Council Has frequently commented to the EPA that it must consider all
nanomaterials as “new” substances
Outcome of Public Meetings on Nanotechnology and TSCA Being converted into Nanoscale Materials Stewardship
Program
Some nanomaterials have already been approved Carbon nanotubes have been issued a LoREx exemption
Managing Uncertainty
48
OSHA Position on Nanotechnology
No change since last year
Reliant on present set of regulations to answer questions: Hazard communication – 1910.1200 Occupational exposure to hazardous chemicals in laboratories
- 1910.1450 Respiratory protection – 1910.134 Personal protective equipment – 1910.132
New OSHA Head has commented on need to address nanotechnology
Managing Uncertainty
49
OSHA Position on Nanotechnology
“…OSHA is participating in initiatives led by the White House to address issues related to nanotechnology, such as risk assessment and safety and health research. As information becomes available, OSHA plans to develop guidance for employers and employees engaged in operations involving nanomaterials, and OSHA is also working with NIOSH as they conduct research in this area.”
Edwin G. Foulke Jr. (Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety and
Health)
Managing Uncertainty
50
ASTM E56
Formed in 2005
Addresses issues related to standards and guidance materials for nanotechnology & nanomaterials,
Includes subcommittees on “Environmental & Occupational Health & Safety” and “Standards of Care/Product Stewardship”
No specific work products have been produced
Managing Uncertainty
51
Safe handling of nanomaterials
Minimization / prevention of
workforce exposure
Protection of environment
Prevention of fire and
explosion
Response to emergencies
Nanomaterials – Toward Best Management Practices for Safe Handling
How can the material be monitored in the
environment?
What are the material properties (solubility,
reactivity, flammability, toxicity, etc)?
How will the material behave in the environment?
How will people be exposed?
How often can exposure occur?
What are the means, methods and products
of handling / processing?
What is the level of containment?
How much could be released from the
process?
What type of PPE will be needed?
A Concept for Best Management
Managing Uncertainty
52
Best Management Practices
Development of standard operating procedures and best management practices Development of work procedures that emphasize the
prevention of inadvertent exposures Use of job safety analysis and other risk assessment
techniques to identify potential exposures routes and identify control approaches
Reduce unnecessary exposures (consider the use of controlled access areas)
Managing Uncertainty
53
Best Management Practices
Development of standard operating procedures and best management practices (cont) Develop standards for construction of nanomaterials work
areas Develop procedures for responding to unexpected releases or
spills Provide up to date hazard information to the workforce
including MSDS and other substance specific information Develop a process to identify the workers that would have
potential for exposures to nanomaterials
Managing Uncertainty
54
Application of Control Banding
Control banding is a technique for managing materials where there is uncertainty as to the risks posed by the materials Establish a minimum level of containment based on the
potential for exposures, volume of material used and potential hazard of the material
• Lowest level would involve the use of standard safe handling practices and general ventilation
• Highest level would involve the use of state of the art containment systems that would eliminate any direct contact with the material (100% closed system)
Managing Uncertainty
55
Application of Control Banding
Managing Uncertainty
56
Application of Control Banding
NIOSH has been investigating the potential for the application of control banding methods to nanotechnology
The technique has promise as a control approach for addressing the potential risks that might be present until such time as better toxicity data becomes available
Managing Uncertainty
57
The Future
There is still much work to be done in the area of nanotechnology and SH&E
Limited available science will not deter development of effective safeguards Build on existing models (JSA; control banding; ALARA; or
potent compounds) Utilize safe handling practices and minimize potential for
contact (think BMP) Use prudent precautions for protection of the workforce -- Err
conservatively
Multidisciplinary approaches will be needed
Managing Uncertainty
58
Conclusions
Regulations will lag but continuing efforts are underway, particularly at EPA, that will have an impact
Toxicology and epidemiology continue to lag behind the developments of nanomaterials
Communication of both risks and safety critical in an environment susceptible to sensationalism Substantiated through science and practice There is no single or simple answer Not limited to scientific community – must include others such
as economists, sociologists, and ethicists Nanotechnology will challenge conventional approaches to
addressing occupational safety and health risk
Managing Uncertainty
59
Websites for More Information
National Nanotechnology Initiative http://www.nano.gov/
NIOSH Nanotechnology Home Page http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/nanotech/default.html
USEPA White Paper http://es.epa.gov/ncer/nano/publications/whitepaper12022005.pdf
United Kingdom Health and Safety Executive http://www.hse.gov.uk/horizons/nanotech/index.htm
ASTM Committee E56 on Nanotechnology http://www.astm.org/cgi-bin/SoftCart.exe/COMMIT/COMMITTEE/
E56.htm?L+mystore+kueb3031