Salem, NH, June 22
nd, 2021
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) released
Current Intelligence Bulletin 70: Health Effects of Occupational Exposure to Silver Nanomaterials. For the document, NIOSH researchers assessed the potential health risk from occupational exposure to silver nanomaterials from several previous studies.
According to the 370-page bulletin:
Nanoscale silver particles are some of the most widely used nanomaterials in commerce, with numerous uses in consumer and medical products. Workers who produce or use silver nanomaterials are potentially exposed to those materials in the workplace. Previous authoritative assessments of occupational exposure to silver did not account for particle size.
From the research, NIOSH has derived a recommended exposure limit (REL) of 0.9 micrograms per cubic meter (μg/m
3) as an airborne respirable 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA) concentration to protect workers from silver nanomaterials. This REL applies to a primary particle size of ≤ 100 nanometers. In addition, NIOSH continues to recommend a REL of 10 μg/m
3 as an 8-hour TWA for total silver (metal dust, fume, and soluble compounds, as silver). NIOSH further recommends the use of workplace exposure assessments, engineering controls, safe work procedures, training, and education, and established medical surveillance approaches to protect employees.
Nanomaterials, including those made from silver, are a rapidly growing part of modern industry and medical research. They come in a wide variety of compositions and shapes, making them useful in everything from consumer and medical products to energy production and aerospace.
To help understand the benefits, possibilities, and challenges these materials present, the scientists, and engineers at Advanced MicroAnalytical offer a wide range of testing, consulting, and research options. Their laboratory is staffed with industry experts who have access to the most advanced and specialized instrumentation available. These services are available to companies, institutions, research scientists, regulatory agencies, and public health professionals.
To learn more about nanomaterials or other material testing, research, development, or quality control support services provided by Advanced MicroAnalytical, please visit
www.AdvancedMicroAnalytical.com, call (877) 605-6662, or email
info@AdvancedMicroAnalytical.com.
About Advanced MicroAnalytical
At Advanced MicroAnalytical we are dedicated to providing you and your business with critical insight and knowledge that is essential in the modern era. We provide the testing services and analytical tools for comprehensive understanding of your materials and projects. Our services range from advanced microanalysis of nanotechnology to compositional and functional analysis of large manufactured systems. Our laboratory services span a wide range of industries, including manufacturing, micro-electronics, nanofabrication, aerospace and defense, environmental engineering – as well as many others. Advanced MicroAnalytical is committed to serving as a valued analytical partner to our clients. We offer unmatched analysis, testing, and services to assist you in your business, environmental, and research challenges. Visit our website at
www.advancedmicroanalytical.com.