Nanoparticles are extremely small particles of a substance, measuring between 1 and 100 nanometres (1 nanometre is one millionth of a millimetre). These particles have specific properties that may differ significantly from those of 'normal' materials, for example different conductive, magnetic or toxic properties. Because little is still known about the risks of nanoparticles, they are treated as hazardous substances.
Treat nanoparticles as hazardous substances
Because the risks of nanoparticles remain uncertain and largely unknown, they must be treated as hazardous substances. This is stated in an opinion issued by the Social and Economic Council (Dutch) on the safe handling of nanoparticles in the workplace. Donner, the former Minister of Social Affairs and Employment requested this opinion.
Nanoparticles are extremely small particles that cannot be seen with the naked eye. A nanometre is 0.000001 millimetres; that is 1 billionth of a metre. Because nanoparticles are so small, they have specific properties that may create new opportunities, for example enabling medicines to be delivered more precisely. Although they may also present risks, there is still considerable uncertainty about those risks.
Prevent exposure
According to the Social and Economic Council (SER), employers must therefore apply the precautionary principle. This means employers must prevent employees from coming into contact with nanoparticles. If exposure cannot be avoided, the employer must ensure that employees are exposed as little as possible and for as short a time as possible. In addition, the employer must monitor the health of the employees concerned.
The SER considers the application of the precautionary principle to be temporary, until nanoparticles are included in REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals), the European substances legislation, or until there is sufficient knowledge about the risks of nanoparticles.
At present, a significant number of people in the Netherlands already work with nanoparticles, and this number is expected to increase rapidly. Almost all companies and knowledge institutions working with nanoparticles already implement measures to limit exposure, such as ventilation and personal protective equipment. Whether these measures are effective is not yet known.
Assess health risks
The website nano.stoffenmanager.com can be used to carry out a qualitative assessment of the health risks associated with exposure to synthetic nanoparticles. It also allows control measures to be selected or included in the Action Plan.