Nanoparticles in the Workplace: Assessing and Managing Risks 

Sponsor: AIHA’s Nanotechnology Working Group

Course Level: Intermediate

0.5 IH CM Points/0.4 CEU/0.4 COC

Prerequisites: Familiarity with basic concepts of nanotechnology; basic understanding or experience in sampling and controlling occupational exposures to particles.

Presented by:

• Charles Geraci, PhD, CIH
• Mark Hoover, PhD, CHP, CIH
• Donna Heidel, RN, MS, CIH
• Terri Pearce, PhD
• Laura Hodson, MS, CIH
• Mark Methner, PhD, CIH

Learning Objectives:
Students will be provided with tools to better able them to:

• Identify hazards that may be associated with exposure to nanoparticles.
• Classify nanoparticles according to hazard.
• Determine basic approaches to controlling exposure.
• Determine how to assess the efficacy of control.
• Identify limitations of sampling methods.
• Recognize the importance of periodic reevaluations of hazard and control.

Outline:

• Overview of the risk assessment and risk management approach
• Hazard classification issues
• Exposure control as a function of material amount, dustiness and process detail
• Graded approaches to controlling exposure
• Exposure assessment and sampling methods – pros, cons and limitations
• Identifying and applying standard methods for sampling and analysis
• Communication between the IH and stakeholders
• Real-world examples for application of the guidance, including lessons learned

Course Description: There are gaps in our understanding of how risk assessment and risk management approaches are functioning and can function in actual nanotechnology workplaces. This intermediate level course will provide practical guidance for matching appropriate controls and work practices to tasks involving a range of nanoparticle materials. The guidance approach uses a four-step process (hazard evaluation, exposure control, control verification and periodic reevaluation) to manage occupational risk by applying what we know in the face of uncertainties. Following a review of the hazards associated with exposure to nanoparticles, participants will be taken through an overview of risk assessment and the risk management approach, along with suggestions and case studies. 

Instructors:

• Charles Geraci, PhD, CIH
• Mark Hoover, PhD, CHP, CIH
• Donna Heidel, RN, MS, CIH
• Terri Pearce, PhD
• Laura Hodson, MS, CIH
• Mark Methner, PhD, CIH

Time to Complete: This course will take approximately four hours to complete. You will have up to (1) year from your enrollment date to complete the course.

Course Components: DVD containing video of the PDC, PDF course handouts, final exam, and evaluation.