Protecting the 

Nanotechnology Workforce

NIOSH Nanotechnology Research and Guidance

Strategic Plan, 2013–2016

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health

Protecting the 

Nanotechnology Workforce

NIOSH Nanotechnology Research and Guidance

Strategic Plan, 2013–2016

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health
ii | Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce

 This document is in the public domain and may be freely copied or reprinted.

Disclaimer

Mention of any company or product does not constitute endorsement by the National Institute for 

Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). In addition, citations to Web sites external to NIOSH 

do not constitute NIOSH endorsement of the sponsoring organizations or their programs or products. Furthermore, NIOSH is not responsible for the content of these Web sites. All Web addresses referenced in this document were accessible as of the publication date.

Ordering Information

To receive documents or other information about occupational safety and health topics, contact 

NIOSH at

Telephone: 1–800–CDC–INFO (1–800–232–4636)

TTY: 1–888–232–6348

CDC INFO: cdcinfo@cdc.gov

or visit the NIOSH Web site at www.cdc.gov/niosh.

For a monthly update on news at NIOSH, subscribe to NIOSH eNews by visiting www.cdc.gov/

niosh/eNews.

Suggested Citation

NIOSH [2013]. Protecting the nanotechnology workforce: NIOSH nanotechnology research and 

guidance strategic plan, 2013–2016. Cincinnati, OH: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute for Occupational Safety and 

Health, DHHS (NIOSH) Publication 2014–106.

DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2014–106

December 2013

Safer • Healthier • PeopleTM
Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce | iii

Foreword

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) is pleased to present Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce: NIOSH Nanotechnology Research and Guidance Strategic Plan, 

2013–2016. This plan updates the November 2009 strategic plan with knowledge gained from 

results of ongoing research, as described in the 2012 report Filling the Knowledge Gaps for Safe 

Nanotechnology in the Workplace: A Progress Report from the NIOSH Nanotechnology Research Center, 

2004–2011. The NIOSH Nanotechnology Research Program follows a comprehensive plan that is 

managed as a matrix structure across NIOSH and supports multiple sectors in the National Occupational Research Agenda (NORA). 

Nanotechnology provides many opportunities for advancing the economic value and impact of new 

U.S. technologies and products as it expands into every industrial sector. Today, nanomaterials are 

found in hundreds of products, ranging from cosmetics, to clothing, to industrial and biomedical 

applications. The potential benefits of nanotechnology are huge, and these benefits should be realized by society. However, there is ongoing concern that the full potential of the societal benefits 

may not be realized if research efforts are not undertaken to determine how to best manage and 

control the potential occupational safety and health hazards associated with the handling of these 

nanomaterials. 

The research conducted over the past 8 years has proven that NIOSH is a global leader in promoting the responsible development of nanotechnology. NIOSH has built business partnerships, established itself as a key player in nanotoxicology, published precautionary guidance (Approaches to Safe 

Nanotechnology: Managing the Safety and Health Concerns Associated with Engineered Nanomaterials), 

and issued recommended exposure limits for nanoscale titanium dioxide and for carbon nanotubes 

and nanofibers. 

This NIOSH Nanotechnology Research and Guidance Strategic Plan is the roadmap being used to advance basic understanding of the toxicology and workplace exposures involved so that appropriate 

risk management practices can be implemented during discovery, development, and commercialization of engineered nanomaterials. NIOSH will strive to remain at the forefront of developing guidance that supports and promotes the safe and responsible development of such a promising technology.

John Howard, M.D.

Director, National Institute for Occupational 

Safety and Health

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
iv | Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce

Executive Summary

Nanotechnology—the manipulation of matter on a near-atomic scale to produce new materials 

and devices—has the ability to transform many industries, from medicine to manufacturing, and 

the products they produce. By 2020, the National Science Foundation estimates, nanotechnology 

will have a $3 trillion impact on the global economy and employ 6 million workers in the manufacture of nanomaterial-based products, of which 2 million may be manufactured in the United States 

[NSF 2011]. Nanomaterials may present new challenges to understanding, predicting, and managing potential health risks to workers. 

Many knowledge gaps still remain on how to work safely with all of these materials. Through strategic planning, research, partnering with stakeholders, and making information widely available, the 

National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) is working to continue to provide 

national and world leadership in providing solutions that will prevent work-related illness and injury.

Nanotechnology and NIOSH Research

Nanotechnology and the commercialization of products and devices containing engineered nanomaterials could help address critical global problems concerning energy, transportation, pollution, 

health, and food. The potential benefits of nanotechnology are huge, and these benefits should be 

realized. Nonetheless, there is concern that the full potential of the societal benefits may not be realized if cautions about the adverse human health effects are not heeded and concerns are not honored. Timely, targeted research is needed to define hazards, exposures, and risks and to provide 

guidance for safe handling of nanomaterials. A concerted effort by industry, academia, labor, the 

professions, and government is needed to identify and address the knowledge gaps in a transparent and credible process that coincides with development of this new technology. NIOSH is playing an active part in this process by supporting the development of a broad spectrum of research 

and prevention strategies for health and safety hazards related to nanotechnology. In a series of reports [NIOSH 2007, 2009a, 2012a], NIOSH has summarized its progress in conducting nanotechnology research and recommending risk management strategies (see http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/

topics/nanotech/). NIOSH investigators have identified adverse health effects in animals exposed to 

various engineered nanomaterials; assessed exposure of workers; initiated epidemiologic research; 

and provided guidance on control technologies and medical surveillance. There are many questions 

still to be answered. A vast number of potential new nanomaterials are possible and could result in 

a seemingly limitless combination of physicochemical factors. There is need for an expeditious approach to controlling exposure to the large number of nanomaterials in science and commerce now 

and in the future. Moreover, the advanced nanomaterials under development are likely to have additional potentially hazardous characteristics that will need to be addressed [Murashov et al. 2012]. 

NIOSH Nanotechnology Research Center (NTRC)

The NIOSH Nanotechnology Research Center (NTRC) was established in 2004 to coordinate 

nanotechnology research across the institute. Ten critical areas of research were identified, each having at least one key scientist serving as a coordinator. The NTRC and its steering committee of critical area coordinators are responsible for developing and guiding NIOSH scientific and organizational plans in nanotechnology health and safety research. 
Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce | v

Strategic Plan

The development of nanotechnology has reached a point where it is being widely applied, and numerous nanomaterials and nano-enabled products are in commerce. Nanotechnology has the potential to provide great benefit to society, but it must be developed responsibly. This responsibility involves addressing any adverse human and environmental impacts of the technology associated 

with engineered nanomaterials (ENMs). Workers are among the first people in any society to be 

exposed to the potential health hazards caused by the products of new technology, and their exposure to any new material is often greater than for the general population. Therefore, worker safety 

and health can be seen as the core of responsible development (Figure 1).

Through its strategic plan for fiscal years (FY) 2013–2016, NIOSH will marshal its resources and 

partner with others efficiently and effectively to advance efforts to protect the nanotechnology 

workforce. With the input of a broad range of stakeholders in government, academia, and the private sector, NIOSH will continue to operate under a strategic plan for nanotechnology research and 

guidance. The most recent previous version was published in November 2009 and included research 

plans through FY 2012 (see http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/2010-105/). 

Figure 1. The core of responsible development of nanotechnology.

Significant

benefits to 

society

Responsible 

development of

the technology

Nanomaterial 

worker safety 

and health
vi | Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce

This document presents the NTRC Strategic Plan for FY2013–FY2016. The strategic plan also 

highlights how the critical research and guidance efforts of NIOSH align with and support the 

comprehensive Environmental, Health, and Safety Research Strategy needs of the National Nanotechnology Initiative. For the period FY2013–FY2016, NIOSH will continue to fill information 

and knowledge gaps that address the five NIOSH NTRC strategic goals:

1. Increase understanding of new hazards and related health risks to nanomaterial workers.

2. Expand understanding of the initial hazard findings of engineered nanomaterials.

3. Support the creation of guidance materials to inform nanomaterial workers, employers, 

health professionals, regulatory agencies, and decision-makers about hazards, risks, and risk 

management approaches.

4. Support epidemiologic studies for nanomaterial workers, including medical, cross-sectional, 

prospective cohort, and exposure studies. 

5. Assess and promote national and international adherence with risk management guidance. 

To address these strategic goals and promote the responsible development of engineered nanomaterials, the strategic plan will expand research activities in 10 NTRC critical areas: toxicity and internal dose; measurement methods; exposure assessment; epidemiology and surveillance; risk assessment; engineering controls and personal protective equipment (PPE); fire and explosion safety; 

recommendations and guidance; global collaborations; and applications. 
Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce | vii

Contents

Foreword . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iii

Executive Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iv

Acknowledgments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ix

Abbreviations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . x

1 INTRODUCTION 1

1.1 Background . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

1.2 Mission of NIOSH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

1.3 NIOSH Logic Model . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

2 INPUTS 7

2.1 Nature of Nanomaterials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

2.2 Nature of the Nanomaterial Workplace . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

2.3 Customer and Stakeholder Input . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

2.4 NIOSH Research Capabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

2.5 NIOSH Partnerships . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

3 ACTIVITIES 11

3.1 NIOSH Nanotechnology Research Center (NTRC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

3.2 NTRC Steering Committee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

3.3 Current NIOSH NTRC Intramural Nanotechnology Research Activities . . . . . . . . 11

3.3.1 Evaluation of the nanotechnology research program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

3.4 Current NIOSH Extramural Nanotechnology Research Activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

4 GOALS 13

4.1 Address Each Element in the Risk Management Continuum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

4.2 Identification of NTRC Data Needs for Knowledge Gaps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

4.3 Coalescing Priorities for NIOSH NTRC Research and Guidance

for FY2013–FY2016 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

4.4 Coordination with the National Nanotechnology Initiative . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

4.5 Proposed NIOSH NTRC Research . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

5 OUTPUTS 29

5.1 NIOSH Publications on Nanotechnology Since 2009 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

5.2 NIOSH Peer-Reviewed Publications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

5.3 Sponsored Conferences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

5.4 Presentations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
viii | Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce

6 RESEARCH TO PRACTICE (r2p) 31

6.1 Capacity Building through Technical Assistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

7 Intermediate Customers and Intermediate Outcomes 33

7.1 Federal Government Agencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

7.2 Standards Development Organizations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

7.3 Industry, Labor, and Academia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

7.4 Professional Organizations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

7.5 Research Collaborations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

7.6 International Activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

8 OUTCOMES 35

References . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Appendix A: Comprehensive Chart of the NNI 2011 EHS Research Needs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Appendix B: Timeline for NIOSH Nanotechnology Research . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce | ix

Acknowledgments

This report was developed by the scientists and staff of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) who participate in the NIOSH Nanotechnology Research Center (NTRC). Paul Schulte is the manager and Charles Geraci is the coordinator of the NIOSH 

cross-sector program. Special thanks go to Laura Hodson for writing and organizing the report. 

Others who contributed substantially to the report include Vincent Castranova, Teh-hsun (Bean) 

Chen, Matthew Dahm, Kevin Dunn, Douglas Evans, Pengfei Gao, Mark Hoover, Eileen Kuempel, 

Kenneth Martinez, Vladimir Murashov, Mary Schubauer-Berigan, Aleksandr Stefaniak, Douglas 

Trout, and Leonid Turkevich. 

The NIOSH NTRC acknowledges the contributions of Sarah Earl, Gino Fazio, Rachel Thieman, 

and Vanessa Williams for their graphic design and production services, and Seleen Collins for editing the report. In addition, it expresses special appreciation to these individuals and organizations 

for their reviews and comments: 

Carol Rice, Ph.D., CIH

University of Cincinnati

Cincinnati, OH

Michael Kosnett, M.D.

University of Colorado

Denver, CO 

James Bonner, Ph.D.

North Carolina State University

Raleigh, NC 

Lindsey Darrow, Ph.D.

Rollins School of Public Health

Atlanta, GA 

Ellen Eisen, Ph.D.

University of California, Berkeley

Berkeley, CA 

Michael Ellenbecker, Ph.D.

University of Massachusetts, Lowell

Lowell, MA

Lawrence Gibbs, M.Ed., M.P.H., CIH

Stanford University

Stanford, CA 

Steven Gordon, Ph.D.

3M

St. Paul, MN 

Bruce Lippy, Ph.D., CIH, CSP

CPWR, The Center for Construction

 Research and Training

Baltimore, MD 

Günter Oberdörster, D.V.M., Ph.D.

University of Rochester Medical Center

Rochester, NY 

Michele Ostraat, Ph.D.

RTI International

Research Triangle Park, NC 

Gurumurthy Ramachandran, Ph.D.

University of Minnesota

Minneapolis, MN 

Darius Sivin, Ph.D.

United Auto Workers

Washington, D.C.
x | Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce

Abbreviations

AFL-CIO American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations

AIHA American Industrial Hygiene Association

ANSES The French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety

ANSI American National Standards Institute

ASSE American Society of Safety Engineers

ASTM American Society for Testing and Materials (currently ASTM International)

CNT carbon nanotube

CPSC Consumer Product Safety Commission

DHHS Department of Health and Human Services

DOT Department of Transportation

EHS environment, health and safety

ENM engineered nanomaterial

EPA U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

EU European Union

FMSH Federal Mine Safety and Health

FY fiscal year

ICOH International Commission on Occupational Health

ICON International Council on Nanotechnology

IEC International Electrotechnical Commission

ILO International Labour Organization

ISEA International Safety Equipment Association

ISO International Organization for Standardization

MSHA Mine Safety and Health Administration

NanoBCA Nanobusiness Commercialization Association

NCER National Center for Environmental Research

NEHI Nanotechnology Environmental and Health Implications

NFPA National Fire Protection Association

NIEHS National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences

NIH National Institutes of Health

NIOSH National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health 

NIST National Institute of Standards and Technology

NNI National Nanotechnology Initiative

NORA National Occupational Research Agenda
Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce | xi

NSC National Safety Council

NSF National Science Foundation

NTRC Nanotechnology Research Center

OECD Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development

OEP Office of Extramural Programs

OSH occupational safety and health

OSHA Occupational Safety and Health Administration

PPE personal protective equipment

PtD Prevention through Design

r2p Research to Practice

TNO The Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research

UN United Nations

WHO World Health Organization

Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce | 1

1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background

Nanotechnology is a system of innovative methods to control and manipulate matter at nearatomic scale to produce new materials, structures, 

and devices. Nano-objects are nanomaterials that 

have at least one dimension less than 100 nanometers [ISO 2008]. Nanoparticles are a specific 

class or subset of these nano-objects, having three 

dimensions that are less than 100 nanometers. 

Nanoparticles exhibit unique properties because 

of their nanoscale dimensions. Nanotechnology offers the potential for tremendous improvement and advances in the development of commercial products that may benefit society, such 

as integrated sensors, semiconductors, medical 

imaging, drug delivery systems, structural materials, sunscreens, cosmetics, and coatings. Nanotechnology is one of the most enabling technologies across the world. By 2020, the global market 

for nanotechnology-related products is predicted 

to reach $3 trillion and employ 2 million workers in the United States alone [NSF 2011]. A 

review of the 2013 version of the Nanowerk 

nanomaterials database (http://www.nanowerk.

com/phpscripts/n_dbsearch.php) revealed more than 

3,000 commercially available nanomaterials. 

However, the properties of engineered nanoparticles (e.g., size, surface area, reactivity) that yield 

many improvements in commercial products 

may also pose health risks. Increasing numbers 

of workers are potentially exposed to nanomaterials in research laboratories, start-up companies, production facilities, and operations where 

nanomaterials are processed, used, disposed, or 

recycled. The challenge is to determine whether the nature of intentionally produced (engineered) nanostructured materials and devices presents new occupational safety and health 

risks. At the same time, there is a need to address how the benefits of nanotechnology can 

be realized while the risks are proactively minimized. 

Efforts across multiple federal agencies and the 

private and academic sectors are fostering the 

development and use of nanotechnology. In 

2001, the President’s Council of Advisors on 

Science and Technology collaborated with the 

interagency National Science and Technology 

Council to create the National Nanotechnology Initiative (NNI) [NNI 2001]. This initiative supports basic and applied research in nanotechnology to create new nanomaterials and to 

disseminate new technical capabilities to industry. The purpose of the NNI is to facilitate scientific breakthroughs and maintain U.S. competitiveness in nanoscience. A stated goal of this 

interagency program is to ensure that nanotechnology research leads to the responsible development of beneficial applications by giving high 

priority to research on human health, environmental issues, and societal implications related 

to nanotechnology. 

1.2 Mission of NIOSH

In the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 

1970 (OSH Act, Public Law 91-596) and the 

Federal Mine Safety and Health Act of 1977 

(FMSH Act, Public Law 95-164), Congress declared that the intent of these acts was to ensure, 

insofar as possible, safe and healthful working 

conditions for every working man and woman, 

to preserve our human resources. In these acts, 

NIOSH is given the responsibility for recommending occupational safety and health standards and defining exposure levels that are safe 

for various periods of employment. These include (but are not limited to) the exposures at 

which no worker will suffer diminished health, 

functional capacity, or life expectancy as a result 
2 | Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce

of his or her work experience. By means of criteria documents and other publications, NIOSH 

communicates these recommended standards 

to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the Mine Safety and Health 

Administration (MSHA), and others in the occupational safety and health community. 

Under the OSH Act, NIOSH is charged with 

conducting “research, experiments, and demonstrations relating to occupational safety and 

health” and with developing “innovative methods, techniques, and approaches for dealing 

with [those] problems.” The act specifies target 

areas of research that include identifying criteria for setting worker exposure standards and 

exploring problems created by new technology 

in the workplace. In an amendment to the act, 

NIOSH was given responsibility for conducting training and education “to provide an adequate supply of qualified personnel to carry out 

the purposes of the Act” and for assisting employers and workers with applying methods to 

prevent occupational injuries and illness (Section 21 of the OSH Act).

NIOSH has over 40 years of experience in conducting research and formulating recommendations for occupational safety and health. 

During this period, NIOSH has developed 

considerable expertise in measuring, characterizing, and evaluating new processes and new 

materials by conducting quantitative exposure assessments and evaluating health effects. 

NIOSH also has expertise in developing exposure control systems and prevention strategies 

as well as experience in conducting risk assessments and recommending effective risk management practices.

In 2003, NIOSH became a member of the Nanoscale Science, Engineering, and Technology 

(NSET) Subcommittee of the National Science and Technology Council. As a member, 

NIOSH participates in (1) identifying critical 

issues related to possible hazards of nanomaterials, (2) protecting worker safety and health 

in this emerging technology, and (3) developing 

a strategic plan to address such issues and 

recommend prevention strategies for the safe 

handling and use of nanomaterials. 

In 2004, NIOSH created the Nanotechnology 

Research Center (NTRC) to identify critical 

issues, create a strategic plan for investigating 

these issues, coordinate the NIOSH research 

effort, develop research partnerships, and disseminate information gained. The NTRC comprises nanotechnology-related activities and 

projects supported by approximately 50 scientists in various NIOSH divisions and laboratories. Through the NTRC, NIOSH has 

identified 10 critical research areas for nanotechnology research and communication. These 

10 critical research areas, updated for FY2013–

FY2016, are toxicity and internal dose; measurement methods; exposure assessment; epidemiology and surveillance; risk assessment; 

engineering controls and personal protective equipment (PPE); fire and explosion safety; recommendations and guidance; global collaborations; and applications. By conducting a 

complete plan of research in these critical areas 

in a coordinated, concurrent manner, NIOSH 

is comprehensively addressing the information 

and knowledge gaps necessary to protect workers and responsibly move nanotechnology forward so that its far-reaching benefits may be realized. 

The NIOSH NTRC is working strategically to fill nanomaterial occupational safety and 

health knowledge gaps through active intramural and extramural research programs and 

collaborations. Extramural research is carried 

out through the NIOSH Office of Extramural Programs (OEP), in which nanotechnology research (through R01, K01, R03, R21, and 

R43/44 grant mechanisms) is funded to increase the knowledge of nanotechnology and 

engineered nanomaterials (ENMs) as they relate to occupational safety and health. Research 

areas supported by the NIOSH OEP include 

emission and exposure assessment methods 

for nanoparticles in the workplace, toxicology 

of ENMs, and use of nanotechnology for the 

development of sensors. NIOSH is committed 
Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce | 3

to conducting and supporting studies that will 

improve scientists’ abilities to identify potential 

occupational health effects of nanomaterials. 

NIOSH will facilitate the translation of those 

findings into effective workplace practices. 

NIOSH reported on the progress of the NTRC 

in Filling the Knowledge Gaps for Safe Nanotechnology in the Workplace (Figure 2). This report presents the program accomplishments of 

the NTRC from its inception in 2004 through 

2011. 

The NIOSH NTRC continues to be part of the 

U.S. leadership on the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) TC 229 Nanotechnology Working Group on Health, Safety, and the Environment and continues to work 

with the World Health Organization (WHO) 

collaborating centers on global projects of information dissemination and communication. 

Through these collaborations, the NIOSH 

NTRC assists in developing risk communications on the safe handling of nanomaterials.

1.3 NIOSH Logic Model

NIOSH receives input on identifying and addressing occupational safety and health problems through a logic model (i.e., a process) in 

which the seriousness of the problem or hazard is evaluated, the type and level of research 

needed are determined, and a plan and process 

for communicating the research outcomes are 

formulated. The overall NIOSH logic model 

(Figure 3) has a conventional horseshoe shape, 

with the operational upper branch proceeding 

from inputs to mission relevant outcomes and 

the strategic lower branch supporting those operations through a process of measurable goals 

and management objectives. The two branches 

are correlated and are subject to external factors. 

The NIOSH operational model (Figure 4) for 

conducting research adheres to the logic model in the acquisition and analysis of inputs from 

customers/stakeholders (production inputs) and 

internal/external research capabilities (planning 

inputs) to determine and prioritize research. 

Figure 2. The cover of DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2013–101, the progress report of the NTRC.
4 | Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce

Intramural and extramural researchers present 

their project proposals, which receive appropriate internal and external review and are funded 

on the basis of merit. The conduct of research 

(activities) produces “outputs” such as guidance documents and reports that address effective risk management practices, worker and 

employer education, and new technologies for 

assessing and controlling workplace hazards. 

NIOSH outputs are transferred directly to the 

final customers and stakeholders (who implement improvements in workplace safety and 

health) or to intermediate customers (who utilize NIOSH outputs to produce intermediate 

outcomes). These intermediate outcomes, such 

Figure 3. Schematic of the overall NIOSH logic model. 

as training programs, regulations, and occupational standards, are used to advance workplace 

safety and health. Since NIOSH is not a regulatory agency, it relies heavily on efforts by intermediate and final customers to achieve ultimate outcomes in the form of workplace safety 

and health improvements. The effectiveness in 

achieving these outcomes is influenced at all 

stages of the program operation by both external factors (such as economic and social conditions) and the regulatory environment. Results of NIOSH-funded research and customer 

feedback (intermediate and final outcomes) contribute to the subsequent rounds of program 

planning. 

Inputs Activities Outputs Customers

Management

Objectives

Annual

Goals

External factors

Intermediate

Goals

Strategic

Goals

Outcomes

Operations

Strategy and design

Mission
Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce | 5 Figure 4. Schematic of the NIOSH operational model. 

Research*:

Surveillance, 

epidemiological 

and behavioral 

studies, intervention 

studies, laboratory 

and field studies, 

exposure and 

measurements and 

risk assessment, 

control studies 

and development, 

PPE studies and 

development

*intramural and 

extramural, including 

domestic and 

international efforts, 

such as work 

conducted at ERCs, 

AFCs, and WHO 

Global Network of 

Collaborating Centers

Mission: 

To Provide National and 

World Leadership to Prevent 

Work-Related Illness and Injuries

End 

Outcomes

Production 

Inputs:

budget, staff, 

facilities, 

managerial, 

infrastructure

Planning 

Inputs:

customer/

stakeholder 

inputs, 

surveillance 

and 

intervention 

effectiveness 

data, HHEs, 

earmarks, risk 

assessments

OSHA, MSHA, 

other federal 

agencies; NIOSH 

programs; 

Congress; 

state and 

local agencies; 

standards 

bodies; labor, 

trade and 

professional 

associations; 

technology 

developers and 

manufacturers; 

other 

researchers; S&H 

practitioners

Employees, 

employers, 

industry, 

educators, 

regulators 

who reduce 

or prevent 

hazardous 

exposures or 

conditions

Improvements 

in safety and 

health in 

workplaces

Pilot and/or 

market ready 

technologies, 

training and 

education 

programs, 

guidance, 

regulations, 

standards, 

trade and major 

media releases; 

websites

Transfer:

• Translation of 

research into practice, products and technologies

• Information 

dissemination

• Capacity building 

through technical assistance (HHEs), training and education

• Recommendations, 

reports, publications, workshops, databases, conferences

• Training and 

education materials and demonstration programs, trained professionals

• Tools and methods, 

best practices, developmental technologies, licenses, patents

External Factors:

Economic and social

conditions and regulator

envoronment

Conduct surveillance and evaluate intervention effectiveness

Research Partners Feedback

Transfer

Inputs Activities Outputs Intermediate Outcomes

Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce | 7

2 INPUTS

2.1 Nature of Nanomaterials

The universe of nanomaterials is potentially 

large because of the array of possible combinations of physicochemical parameters, impurities, 

and manufacturing and production conditions 

(Figure 5). NIOSH recognizes the extensive diversity and number of nanomaterials and the 

even larger number of applications for those 

materials. Consequently, it continues to use approaches that allow for a holistic view of nanomaterials and development of priorities that will 

be beneficial to many workers.

2.2 Nature of the

Nanomaterial Workplace

Worker exposure to nanomaterials may occur 

along the life cycle of the nanomaterial, from research through scale-up, manufacturing, product development, use, and end of life (Figure 6). 

Each of the functional areas represents workplaces with different potential exposure scenarios and risks. NIOSH continues to focus on 

the wide array of workplaces where exposure to 

nanomaterials may occur. 

2.3 Customer and

Stakeholder Input

To direct its research and fulfill its responsibilities under the OSH Act and the FMSH 

Act, NIOSH has relied on input from OSHA 

and MSHA, workers, employers, trade associations, unions, occupational safety and health 

practitioners and researchers, and the general 

public. NIOSH also seeks input through formal committees, such as the NIOSH Board 

of Scientific Counselors, the National Advisory Committee on Occupational Safety and 

Health, and the Mine Safety and Health Research Advisory Committee. It also receives 

Figure 5. The wide variety of physicochemical parameters of engineered nanomaterials [Schulte et al. 2009].
8 | Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce

Figure 6. The life cycle of nanomaterials [Schulte et al. 2008a].

Research Laboratories

Start-Up/Scale-Up Operations

Manufacturing/Production

Incorporation in Products

Recycling

Warehousing/Maintenance

Waste Handling

Transport

Warehousing/Maintenace

Warehousing/Maintenance

Transport

Waste handling

Maintenance of Products

Manipulation of Products

Application of Products-Medical Delivery

Disposal/End of Life
Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce | 9

input through ad hoc mechanisms such as the 

NIOSH Web site (www.cdc.gov/niosh), a tollfree telephone line (1-800-CDC-INFO), personal contacts with occupational safety and 

health professionals, and participation in professional conferences and interagency committees. In addition, NIOSH provides stewardship 

of the National Occupational Research Agenda (NORA) (http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/nora),

which is a framework to guide occupational 

safety and health research into the new millennium—not only for NIOSH but for the entire 

occupational safety and health community.

NIOSH continues to be a participating and 

partnering agency in the National Nanotechnology Initiative (NNI) and provides occupational health and safety expertise in support of the U.S. Government’s Strategic Plan 

for Nanotechnology Environmental, Health, 

and Safety Research [NNI 2011]. NIOSH is 

co-leader of the NNI Nanotechnology Environmental and Health Implications Working Group (NEHI) and contributed to the development of the 2011 NEHI Environmental, 

Health, and Safety (EHS) Research Strategy. 

The 2011 NEHI EHS research strategy identified five core nanotechnology EHS research 

categories: (1) nanomaterial measurement infrastructure, (2) human exposure assessment, (3) 

human health, (4) environment, and (5) risk assessment and management methods (Appendix 

A) [NNI 2011]. NIOSH provided significant 

input for the strategy and was the lead agency for developing recommendations on human 

exposure assessment. The NNI EHS research 

strategy focuses on the use of science-based risk 

analysis and risk management to protect public 

health and the environment while fostering the 

technological advancements that benefit society. NIOSH has strived to keep the overarching 

research activities of the NTRC nanotechnology strategic plan (Section 4.3) consistent with 

the NNI EHS research strategy.

The NIOSH NTRC also fosters stakeholder input with trade associations, professional associations, labor, nongovernmental organizations, 

and a number of private nanomaterial companies. These collaborations have provided expertise and resources critical for reviewing research 

activities and for developing and disseminating 

health and safety information on engineered 

nanoparticles. Some of the ongoing NTRC 

stakeholders are the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA), American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE), International 

Safety Equipment Association (ISEA), National Safety Council (NSC), American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL–CIO), and NanoBusiness 

Commercialization Association (NanoBCA).

2.4 NIOSH Research Capabilities

Within its divisions, NIOSH has world-renowned researchers who are trained and experienced in the full spectrum of scientific skills 

needed to evaluate and characterize workplace 

hazards and devise intervention strategies for 

protecting workers. In addition to this expertise, NIOSH has significant laboratory capabilities in particle measurement, aerosol collection and characterization, particle surface 

analysis, measurement of particle surface radicals and activity, and in vitro and in vivo analysis of toxicity and pathogenesis. Laboratories 

conducting nanomaterial research are located in Cincinnati, Ohio; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; and Morgantown, West Virginia. NIOSH 

researchers work closely with a broad range of 

scientists from industry, academia, and other government agencies. The involvement of 

NIOSH in national and international initiatives and programs is an important component 

of its capacity to address critical occupational 

safety and health issues in nanotechnology.

2.5 NIOSH Partnerships 

NIOSH recognizes both the practical need and 

the leadership obligation to extend its internal 

capabilities by leveraging activities and expertise 

found in other research institutions, industries, 
10 | Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce

federal agencies, and nongovernmental organizations. These partnerships serve to deliver on 

multiple objectives; most important, they add 

to the body of knowledge on workplace health 

and safety issues associated with nanotechnology. Partnerships have taken several forms, ranging from formal letters or memoranda of understanding to informal working agreements 

on a specific topic. NIOSH will continue to 

pursue partnerships as a means of achieving the 

goals of this strategic research plan and as effective vehicles to develop and disseminate research results.

The NIOSH NTRC has successfully used partnerships with industry to gain a better understanding of actual industrial nanomaterial processes, workplace exposures, work practices, and 

exposure control techniques. The field research 

conducted by the NTRC to assess exposures to 

engineered nanoparticles represents ongoing partnerships with numerous companies. The NTRC 

will continue to develop these partnerships to 

• better understand how engineered 

nanoparticles are being produced and used

• develop recommendations for the safe 

handling of nanomaterials

• develop sampling and analytical methods

• evaluate exposure controls that are or 

could be used in nanomaterial processes

• evaluate the need for and determine the 

effectiveness of PPE, including respiratory protection

• develop communication and information materials that will assist industry in 

communicating with workers and the 

public. 

Several of the industrial partnerships have provided opportunities for the NTRC to identify areas in which additional research is needed. 

The continued collaboration with other national and international research institutes, academia, and government agencies provides the 

NTRC the opportunity to combine its expertise in workplace health and safety with the 

capabilities of other organizations to investigate specific areas of concern. Working relationships with other research institutes provide the NTRC with the information needed 

to guide its own research, focus its limited resources effectively, and expand its research capabilities through scientific collaboration. The 

NTRC has developed partnerships in the areas of toxicology, risk assessment modeling, exposure measurement methods, epidemiology, 

industrial hygiene, control technologies, filtration of nanoparticles, and communication of 

research results and safe work practices. 

The NTRC has broadened its activities with 

collaborators and stakeholders by participating 

in a number of national and international committees and working groups. This participation 

provides NTRC scientists the opportunity to 

provide and receive input on the key research 

that is needed to address priority areas. 
Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce | 11

3 ACTIVITIES

3.1 NIOSH Nanotechnology 

Research Center (NTRC)

Vision of the NTRC

The vision of the NTRC is as follows:

Safe nanotechnology by delivering on the Nation’s promise—safety and health at work for all 

people through research and prevention. 

Mission of the NTRC

The mission of the NTRC is to provide national and world leadership for research and guidance on the implications of nanoparticles and 

nanomaterials for work-related injury and illness, and the application of nanoparticles and 

nanomaterials in occupational safety and health.

3.2 NTRC Steering Committee

The NTRC Steering Committee is chaired by 

the NTRC Coordinator. The committee is made 

up of the program manager, program coordinator, program assistant coordinator, and critical 

area coordinators for each of the 10 research areas 

(some areas have multiple research coordinators). 

The steering committee is responsible for guiding NIOSH scientific and organizational plans 

in nanotechnology research (including coordination for science and budget) and for developing 

strategic goals and objectives and performance 

measures for the NTRC. Regular updates and 

progress reports on internal research activities 

are managed through biweekly teleconferences 

among members of the NTRC Steering Committee. In addition, to ensure the responsiveness, 

relevance, and impact of the NIOSH nanotechnology program, members of the NTRC and appropriate stakeholders meet in person every 2 

years at a scientific exchange meeting. 

3.3 Current NIOSH NTRC 

Intramural Nanotechnology 

Research Activities

Current NIOSH NTRC research activities in 

nanotechnology are focused on occupational 

safety and health implications and applications 

of ENMs. Data gathered from ongoing research 

studies with engineered nanoparticles are used 

to better understand workplace nanoparticle exposures, the hazards posed by nanomaterials, 

and the potential risk of adverse health effects 

from occupational exposures. Studies are also 

providing data on the characteristics of nanomaterials produced and used in the workplace, 

routes of exposure, and the effectiveness of work 

practices and engineering controls in preventing worker exposure. Findings from these intramural studies are providing scientific data to 

support the development of occupational safety and health recommendations. NIOSH progress and accomplishments in nanotechnology 

research can be found in the report Filling the 

Knowledge Gaps for Safe Nanotechnology in 

the Workplace [NIOSH 2012a].

3.3.1 Evaluation of the nanotechnology 

research program

NIOSH evaluates its research progress in nanotechnology through a series of internal and 

external reviews. Past reviews of its nanotechnology research program have been conducted by the National Academies and by a workgroup of scientists chaired by two members of 

the NIOSH Board of Scientific Counselors. 

Based on these reviews, a revised strategic plan 

was published in November 2009 that proposed 

focused research and guidance on (1) identifying categories of nanomaterials that can be 

distinguished by their physical and chemical 
12 | Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce

properties; (2) recommending specific exposure limits for various nanomaterials; (3) assessing hazards, risks, and exposures; and (4) developing intervention strategies [NIOSH 2009b]. 

In addition to external reviews, NIOSH continues to conduct annual program reviews and 

regular project reviews, and it publishes periodic progress reports describing ongoing research 

and accomplishments.

This NIOSH Nanotechnology Research and 

Guidance Strategic Plan was reviewed by a 

workgroup of scientists chaired by two members 

of the NIOSH Board of Scientific Counselors, 

and public comment was solicited through an 

announcement in the Federal Register. 

3.4 Current NIOSH Extramural 

Nanotechnology Research 

Activities

The NIOSH Office of Extramural Programs (OEP) manages the competitive process for awarding occupational safety and 

health grants and cooperative agreements to 

the research community outside the Institute. This process involves peer review, program relevance, and priorities of the National Occupational Research Agenda (NORA), 

the NIOSH Research to Practice (r2p) initiative, congressional mandates, and sector, 

cross-sector, or coordinated emphasis areas of 

the NIOSH Program Portfolio (http://www.

cdc.gov/niosh/programs).

Since 2001, the NIOSH OEP has funded nanotechnology research through Occupational Safety and Health Research Program 

Announcements (R01), Mentored Scientist 

Grants (K01), Small Research Grants (R03), 

Developmental Grants (R21), and Small Business Innovation Research Grants (R43/44). 

During the period 2001 to 2012, the NIOSH 

OEP has committed approximately $12 million 

to extramural nanotechnology research.* Summaries of the projects funded by the NIOSH 

OEP are included in the document Filling the 

Knowledge Gaps for Safe Nanotechnology in 

the Workplace [NIOSH 2012a]. Through continued collaboration with the Environmental 

Protection Agency/National Center for Environmental Research (EPA/NCER), National 

Science Foundation (NSF), National Institutes 

of Health/National Institute of Environmental 

Health Sciences (NIH/NIEHS), and international agencies, the NIOSH OEP continues to 

support nanotechnology research that focuses 

on occupational safety and health issues. In addition, the NIOSH OEP routinely confers with 

the NIOSH NTRC regarding research needs.

*This includes all extramural projects that involve any aspect of nanotechnology.
Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce | 13

4 GOALS

4.1 Address Each Element in the 

Risk Management Continuum 

Ultimately, the goal of the NTRC is to develop 

information, knowledge, and guidance to protect the nanotechnology workforce. It is relatively early in the emergence of nanotechnology and there are many gaps in knowledge, yet 

nano-enabled products are in commerce and 

workers are being exposed to nanomaterials. 

Consequently, there is a need to address all elements in the risk management continuum concurrently.

The process for managing potential workplace 

exposures to engineered nanoparticles during 

their synthesis, manufacture, and incorporation 

into new materials and devices consists of the 

following steps to ascertain the appropriate risk 

management strategy: 

1. identifying and characterizing the health 

and safety hazard; 

2. conducting dose-response risk assessment; 

3. assessing the extent of exposure; 

4. characterizing the risk on the basis of 

exposure; and 

5. developing control and management 

procedures [Schulte et al. 2008b]. 

As exposure assessment data for nanomaterials become available, the existence of any occupational risk—and the conditions under which 

exposure to the hazard would be harmful to 

workers—can be determined. A goal of the risk 

characterization is to determine whether exposure to a type of material (in this case, nanomaterials) used in a given technology is likely to 

result in adverse health effects. Exposure assessment data provide a means to determine whether workers might be exposed and what type of 

control strategy might be effective in preventing exposure. Epidemiologic research is needed to provide etiologic evidence for new hazards 

and quantitative exposure–response information for recommended exposure limits. Decisions about which nanomaterials to study epidemiologically require collecting information 

on workforce size, exposure levels, and expected hazard (from toxicological or other information). The NIOSH NTRC is involved in conducting research and answering questions posed 

in each element of the risk management process 

to address knowledge gaps in the protection of 

workers (Figure 7). 

A challenge of the NIOSH NTRC program is 

to determine how to conduct timely research 

that addresses the elements of hazard identification through risk management, as introduction of nanomaterials to the workplace continues and the workforce exposed to them becomes 

more diversified. The approach taken by the 

NTRC has been to conduct concurrent, focused 

research to address knowledge gaps in each step 

of the risk management process to provide occupational safety and health guidance.

4.2 Identification of NTRC Data 

Needs for Knowledge Gaps

In preparing this strategic plan, the NTRC 

steering committee met in spring 2012 to identify data needs and research gaps. Information 

was gleaned from various sources: 

• research studies conducted by the NIOSH 

NTRC and others

• comments received during public review 

from open meetings or submitted to the 

NIOSH Docket on Interim Guidance for 
14 | Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce

Hazard Identification

“Is there reason to believe 

this could be harmful?”

Risk Management

“Develop procedures to 

minimize exposures”.

Hazard Characterization

“How and under what 

conditions could it be harmful?”

Exposure Assessment

“Will there be exposure in 

real-world conditions?”

Risk Characterization

“Is substance hazardous 

and will there be exposure?”

• Toxicologic research

• Health effects assessment

• Safety research

• Toxicologic research

• Field assessment

• Epidemiologic and hazard

surveillance research

• Metrology research

• Field assessment

• Control technology research

• Personal protective equipment

(PPE) research

• Risk assessment

• Dose-response modeling

• Exposure characterization

• Epidemiologic research

• Risk communication

• Guidance development for

controls, exposure limits, PPE,

and medical surveillance

• Information dissemination

• Adherence investigation

Gaps in the

Protection of Workers NIOSH Focus

Adapted from Gibbs [2006] and NRC [2009].

Figure 7. Addressing knowledge gaps in protecting nanomaterial workers.
Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce | 15

Medical Screening and Hazard Surveillance for Workers Potentially Exposed to 

Engineered Nanoparticles

• comments received during public review 

from open meetings or submitted to the 

NIOSH Docket on Current Intelligence 

Bulletin for Occupational Exposure to Carbon Nanotubes and Nanofibers

• comments received in the NIOSH Docket on the draft strategic goals [76 Fed. 

Reg.* 123612]

• the 2011 NEHI Environmental, Health, 

and Safety (EHS) Research Strategy

• various scientific meetings and collaborations, including tripartite attendance 

(labor, industry, and government) and 

stakeholder input workshops. 

On the basis of this information, the following 

data needs and research gaps have been identified.

Increase understanding of new hazards and related health risks to nanomaterial workers

• Identify emerging commercial ENMs 

through market forecasting and research, 

technology surveillance, and partner and 

stakeholder input. 

• Determine how workers might be exposed to nanoparticles during manufacturing, handling, and use of nanomaterials. 

— Expand research from primary 

manufacturer to second-, third-, and 

fourth-generation use of ENMs.

— Continue field investigations to better understand worker exposures 

throughout the life cycle, including 

processing of nano-enabled products.

— Determine how ENMs interact with 

the body’s systems.

— Determine relationships between 

specific physicochemical properties 

of ENMs and adverse biological effects. 

*Federal Register. 

Expand understanding of the initial hazard 

findings of engineered nanomaterials 

• Determine carcinogenicity of carbon nanotubes (CNTs).

• Determine whether the cardiovascular system is more sensitive than the lungs to effects from ENM exposures.

• Determine whether ENMs cause immune dysfunction.

• Explore the usefulness of biomarkers for 

identifying and determining the extent 

of worker exposure and the potential for 

adverse health effects.

• Conduct research on measurement methods for nanomaterials.

— Align laboratory and field exposure 

metrics and measurement techniques.

— Expand and refine workplace measurement techniques for assessing 

exposure (tiered approach).

— Develop a microscopy method for 

CNTs and other ENMs. 

— Identify the critical reference materials needed for measurement.

• Continue to evaluate additional ENMs 

for dustiness, explosibility, flammability, 

and electromagnetic hazard potential.

— Correlate dustiness, explosion, fire, 

and electromagnetic data with existing hazard indexes.

Support the creation of guidance materials 

to inform nanomaterial workers, employers, 

health professionals, regulatory agencies, and 

decision-makers about the hazards, risk, and 

risk management approaches. 

• Develop categorical and specific occupational exposure limits.

— Conduct research to recommend 

specific exposure limits for various 

ENMs (e.g., nanosilver, graphene, 

carbon black, nano silica, nanoceramics, nano clays, nano catalysts), and 
16 | Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce

evaluate the adequacy of existing exposure limits.

• Identify categories of nanomaterials that 

can be distinguished by physicochemical 

parameters. 

• Conduct risk assessments.

— Nanoparticle lung dosimetry modeling

— Categorization and comparative potency methods

• Link risk assessment, toxicology, exposure measurement, and control strategies.

• Demonstrate effective risk management 

practices.

• Develop guidance materials.

— Update guidance for medical surveillance (include sensitivity and specificity of medical tests). 

— Evaluate and provide guidance on 

control technology.

— Integrate Prevention through Design 

(PtD) into ENM risk management 

guidelines. 

— Use categorical approaches for ENMs 

to develop guidance on controlling 

exposures (hazard and control banding).

— Evaluate and provide guidance on 

PPE for use with ENMs.

• Partner with businesses to promote safe 

and responsible handling of ENMs.

• Determine whether there are potential applications of nanomaterials for safety and 

health (e.g., improved sensors or PPE).

Support epidemiologic studies for nanomaterial workers, including medical, cross-sectional, prospective cohort and exposure studies. 

• Conduct epidemiologic research on the 

health of nanomaterial workers by employing both cross-sectional and prospective designs.

• Partner with other U.S. agencies and 

groups that have begun epidemiologic 

and other surveillance studies.

• Determine appropriate tools for medical screening and mechanisms of medical 

surveillance among workers exposed to 

specific EMNs.

• Create an exposure database that harmonizes with global exposure databases.

Assess and promote national and international adherence with risk management guidance

• Conduct a national assessment to determine the extent of use of nanomaterial exposure controls and any barriers to 

their use.

• Provide intervention strategies for industry sectors where adherence to good riskmanagement practices is low.

• Partner with other businesses, U.S. agencies, and the international community to 

promote safe, responsible development of 

nanomaterials.

4.3 Coalescing Priorities for 

NIOSH NTRC Research and 

Guidance for FY2013–FY2016 

The NIOSH NTRC has proposed specific research activities (see Section 4.5) for FY2013–

FY2016 that address the previously identified 

research needs and gaps (Section 4.2). Figure 

8 provides a schema for how NIOSH will focus its research activities in accordance with the 

goals of the NTRC Strategic Plan:

• Increase understanding of new hazards 

and related health risks to nanomaterial 

workers.

• Expand understanding of the initial hazard findings of engineered nanomaterials.

• Support the creation of standards and guidance materials to inform nanomaterial 

workers, employers, health professionals, 

regulatory agencies, and decision-makers 
Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce | 17Figure 8. Focus of NIOSH nanomaterial research, 2013–2016.

Critical next seps

Assess national and international

adherence to guidelines

Develop and

update guidance

Clarify initial

hazard findings

Identify new

hazards

Conduct

epidemiologic studies

Informatics

Control technology

and PPE

Risk

assessment

Medical

surveillance

Exposure

assessment

Develop exposure

registries

Address

hotspots

Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce

Develop categorical and specific exposure limits

Risk Management
18 | Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce

about hazards, risks, and risk management approaches.

• Support epidemiologic studies for nanomaterial workers, including medical, 

cross-sectional, prospective cohort, and 

exposure studies. 

• Assess and promote national and international adherence with risk management guidance.

The overall focus of the strategic plan will be 

to continue to generate data, information, and 

knowledge to protect the nanotechnology 

workforce, by using effective risk management 

techniques and particularly keeping exposure 

below occupational limits. Research is proposed 

to develop and update good risk-management 

practices, including categorical and specific exposure limits. Research data and information will be cataloged and shared via informatics (resources, devices, and methods required to 

optimize the acquisition, storage, retrieval, and 

use of information).

4.4 Coordination with the 

National Nanotechnology 

Initiative

NIOSH research priorities address many of the 

strategic goals proposed by the NNI Strategy 

for Nanotechnology Environmental, Health, 

and Safety Research. Table 1 shows the alignment of the NIOSH NTRC strategic goals and 

10 NTRC critical research areas with the NNI 

EHS priority research needs (Appendix A). 

4.5 Proposed NIOSH

NTRC Research

The following proposed research for FY2013–

FY2016 has been coalesced to focus on specific research needs to fill data gaps (see Section 

4.2) and the EHS priority research needs of the 

NNI (see Section 4.4). As knowledge gaps are 

filled and as resources become available, these 

research priorities could change. 

Strategic Goal 1 (PPNANSG1): Increase understanding of new hazards and related health 

risks to nanomaterial workers. 

Intermediate Goal 1.1 (PPNANIG1.1): Conduct 

market forecasting and review available surveillance data to determine emerging commercial ENMs and next-generation uses of existing ENMs.

Activity/Output Goal 1.1.1 (PPNANAOG1.1.1):

Prioritize high-volume emerging ENMs to 

identify the next candidates for toxicological 

testing and field evaluation of workplace exposures.

Performance Measure 1.1.1: In FY2013, complete an initial market research and forecasting 

report for internal use. Update the report within 3 years. 

Activity/Output Goal 1.1.2 (PPNANAOG1.1.2):

Complete a secondary market analysis on high 

volume nanomaterials. 

Performance Measure 1.1.2: By FY2014, 

complete a market landscape analysis of formulators and users of nano titanium dioxide, silver, 

graphene and cellulose. Identify key industries 

using these materials in current products and 

those to be commercialized in the near term. 

Intermediate Goal 1.2 (PPNANIG1.2): Conduct 

research to contribute to the understanding of the 

toxicology and internal dose of emerging ENMs.

Activity/Output Goal 1.2.1 (PPNANAOG1.2.1):

Evaluate acute and chronic effects in the lungs 

and in other organ systems and tissues. Determine dose-response and time-course relationships. Determine rates of clearance of these 

nanoparticles after pulmonary exposure and 

translocation to systemic organs; characterize 

systemic effects.

Performance Measure 1.2.1: Complete toxicologic studies on ENMs such as nanosilver, 

graphene, and nanocellulose; present the data 

via the Society of Toxicology and publish in the 

peer-reviewed literature by FY2016. 
Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce | 19(continured)

Table 1. Alignment of Critical Research Areas with the Five Strategic Goals of the NIOSH NTRC and the NNI EHS Priority Research Needs (RNs)

NIOSH NTRC Strategic Goal/ Critical Research Area

Increase understanding of new hazards and related health risks to nanomaterial workers

Expand understanding of the initial hazard findings of engineered nanomaterials

Support the creation of guidance materials to inform nanomaterial workers and employers about hazards, risks, and risk management approaches

Support epidemiologic studies for nanomaterial workers, including medical, cross–sectional, prospective cohort, and exposure studies

Assess and promote national and international adherence with risk management guidance

Toxicity and internal dose *

3-RN1†3-RN23-RN33-RN43-RN54-RN1

3-RN1†3-RN23-RN33-RN43-RN5



Measurement methods 

1-RN11-RN21-RN32-RN13-RN2

1-RN11-RN21-RN32-RN13-RN2


20 | Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce Table 1 (Continued). Alignment of Critical Research Areas with the Five Strategic Goals of the NIOSH NTRC and the NNI EHS Priority Research Needs (RNs)

(continured)

NIOSH NTRC Strategic Goal/ Critical Research Area

Increase understanding of new hazards and related health risks to nanomaterial workers

Expand understanding of the initial hazard findings of engineered nanomaterials

Support the creation of guidance materials to inform nanomaterial workers and employers about hazards, risks, and risk management approaches

Support epidemiologic studies for nanomaterial workers, including medical, cross–sectional, prospective cohort, and exposure studies

Assess and promote national and international adherence with risk management guidance

Exposure assessment 

2-RN12-RN33-RN24-RN15-RN2

2-RN12-RN33-RN24-RN15-RN2



Epidemiology and surveillance    2-RN1

2-RN32-RN43-RN65-RN2

5-RN2

Risk assessment 

5-RN15-RN25-RN5

5-RN15-RN25-RN5

5-RN35-RN4
Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce | 21 *A check mark () indicates that a goal is currently being addressed by projects within the NIOSH critical research area. †Alphanumeric identifications indicate specific NNI priority research needs (see Appendix A) being met by the NIOSH projects in each critical research area. ‡International engagement is a priority of the NNI and a critical component of the 2011 NNI EHS Research Strategy. However, it is not identified as a research need in the NNI Strategy. §NIOSH will work with other governments to determine global adherence. ¶The NNI EHS plan does not address applications of nanomaterials for EHS use. However, the NNI strategic plan includes applications as a driving force behind several Federal nano- technology programs, and it has the potential to improve safety and health, such as through the development of advanced sensors or PPE. 

NIOSH NTRC Strategic Goal/ Critical Research Area

Increase understanding of new hazards and related health risks to nanomaterial workers

Expand understanding of the initial hazard findings of engineered nanomaterials

Support the creation of guidance materials to inform nanomaterial workers and employers about hazards, risks, and risk management approaches

Support epidemiologic studies for nanomaterial workers, including medical, cross–sectional, prospective cohort, and exposure studies

Assess and promote national and international adherence with risk management guidance

Engineering controlsand PPE

2-RN15-RN15-RN2

2-RN15-RN15-RN2

 

5-RN2

Fire and explosion safety 

1-RN5

1-RN5



Recommendationsand guidance

5-RN‡5-RN§5-RN¶

5-RN2

Global collaborations‡     §Applications¶ 

Table 1 (Continued). Alignment of Critical Research Areas with the Five Strategic Goals of the NIOSH NTRC and the NNI EHS Priority Research Needs (RNs)
22 | Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce

Performance Measure 1.2.2: Identify probable 

combinations of nanomaterial uses and if frequent combinations are identified, conduct preliminary toxicologic evaluations to determine if 

synergistic effects occur by FY2016.

Intermediate Goal 1.3 (PPNANIG1.3): Determine whether nanomaterial toxicity can be categorized on the basis of physicochemical properties and mode of action.

Activity/Output Goal 1.3.1 (PPNANAOG1.3.1):

Systematically investigate the physical and chemical properties of particles that influence their 

toxicity (e.g., size, shape, surface area, solubility, 

chemical properties, and trace components). 

Activity/Output Goal 1.3.2 (PPNANAOG1.3.2.):

Determine the biological mechanisms for toxic effects (e.g., oxidant stress, dissolution, fibrogenicity, and hydrophobicity) and how the key 

chemical and physical factors may influence 

these mechanisms. 

Activity/Output Goal 1.3.3 (PPNANAOG1.3.3):

Integrate mechanistic models (including animal models and in vitro screening tests) for 

assessing the potential toxicity of new nanomaterials, and provide a basis for developing 

predictive algorithms for structure/function relationships and comparative toxicity analyses 

for risk assessment. Determine whether toxicologic data from new studies can be linked to existing toxicologic data.

Performance Measure 1.3.1: By FY2016, determine whether ENMs can be categorized 

(hazard banded) on the basis of physicochemical 

properties and/or the toxicologic mode of action. 

Intermediate Goal 1.4 (PPNANIG1.4): Conduct nanomaterial workplace exposure assessments at sites developing, producing, or using 

emerging ENMs. 

Activity/Output Goal 1.4.1 (PPNANAOG1.4.1):

Collaborate with nanomaterial businesses to 

identify processes that may release nanomaterials during manufacturing or use of ENMs. 

Evaluate potential exposures and document 

risk mitigation processes. 

Performance Measure 1.4.1.1: Complete a 

minimum of four field evaluations per year at 

facilities producing or using emerging ENMs. 

By FY2014, publish summary findings in a 

peer-reviewed journal.

Performance Measure 1.4.1.2: Evaluate ENM 

use and risk management practices at user facilities across the life cycle, including secondary 

and tertiary facilities. By FY2015, publish summary findings in a peer-reviewed journal.

Strategic Goal 2 (PPNANSG2): Expand understanding of the initial hazard findings of 

engineered nanomaterials.

Intermediate Goal 2.1 (PPNANIG2.1): Conduct 

research to evaluate the adverse chronic effects 

of single-walled carbon nanotubes, multi-walled 

carbon nanotubes, and carbon nanofibers. 

Activity/Output Goal 2.1.1 (PPNANAOG2.1.1):

Conduct toxicologic testing to determine the 

potential of single-walled carbon nanotubes, 

multi-walled carbon nanotubes, and carbon 

nanofibers to have long-term pulmonary effects 

(fibrosis, lung cancer, mesothelioma). 

Performance Measure 2.1.1: By FY2016, publish a report on the carcinogenicity of carbonaceous nanomaterials, based on completed carcinogenicity-toxicology studies.

Intermediate Goal 2.2 (PPNANIG2.2): Determine whether human biomarkers of nanomaterial exposure and/or response can be identified.

Activity/Output Goal 2.2.1 (PPNANAOG2.2.1):

Conduct research to determine whether blood, 

urine, or nasal lavage markers can accurately 

predict initiation and progression of adverse responses to ENMs. 

Performance Measure 2.2.1: By FY2017, publish results of human biomarker studies.
Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce | 23

Activity/Output Goal 2.2.2 (PPNANAOG2.2.2):

Conduct research to determine whether cardiovascular or immune responses are sensitive 

indicators of pulmonary exposure to ENMs. 

Performance Measure 2.2.2: By FY2016, publish findings on cardiovascular and immune responses to pulmonary exposure to ENMs.

Intermediate Goal 2.3 (PPNANIG2.3): Determine the relevance of in vitro and in vivo 

screening tests to worker response to inhalation of ENMs.

Activity/Output Goal 2.3.1 (PPNANAOG 2.3.1):

Evaluate the relationship of deposition patterns 

and biological responses to pulmonary bolus 

exposure (intratracheal instillation or pharyngeal aspiration) vs. exposure extended over time 

(inhalation) of ENMs in rodent models.

Performance Measure 2.3.1: By FY2016, publish findings on the relationship of deposition 

patterns and biological responses to pulmonary 

bolus exposure vs. exposure extended over time.

Activity/Output Goal 2.3.2 (PPNANAOG 2.3.2):

Evaluate predictive in vitro screening tests for 

fibrogenicity, genotoxicity, and/or cell transformation.

Performance Measure 2.3.2: Publish results 

from predictive in vitro screening tests for fibrogenicity, genotoxicity, and/or cell transformation, 

over the next 2 to 4 years (FY2014–FY2016). 

Intermediate Goal 2.4 (PPNANIG2.4): Conduct research on measurement methods for 

nanomaterials.

Activity/Output Goal 2.4.1 (PPNANAOG2.4.1):

Continue interactions with national metrology 

institutes and qualify cellulose and single-walled 

CNT nanoscale reference materials (RMs) and/

or benchmark materials for evaluating measurement tools, instruments, and methods for exposure assessment and toxicology. 

Performance Measure 2.4.1.1: By FY2014, complete a round-robin evaluation of a transmission 

electron microscopy (TEM) sample-preparation 

procedure using National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) gold nanoparticle RMs 8011, 8012, and 8013. 

Performance Measure 2.4.1.2: By FY2014, 

translate this TEM sample-preparation procedure into a consensus standard practice or guide 

through ASTM International Committee E56: 

Nanotechnology. 

Performance Measure 2.4.1.3: Within 4 years 

(FY2016), utilize NIST gold nanoparticle RMs 

8011, 8012, and 8013 to evaluate filter- and 

grid-based sample-collection techniques and 

TEM analysis for spherical ENMs. 

Performance Measure 2.4.1.4: By FY2016, 

develop measurement protocols for dynamic 

light scattering (hydrodynamic diameter), laser 

Doppler electrophoresis (zeta potential), and 

gas adsorption (surface area) measurements 

that utilize RMs (as appropriate) for particle 

characterization for internal use to promote reproducibility of testing. 

Performance Measure 2.4.1.5: By FY2016, 

develop instrument sampling cards that provide a succinct summary on the operation and 

utility of condensation particle counters, scanning mobility particle sizers, and diffusion 

chargers for internal use to promote measurement quality. 

Activity/Output Goal 2.4.2 (PPNANAOG2.4.2):

Understand relationships between laboratory 

instrumentation used to characterize aerosols 

for toxicology studies and field-measurement 

instrumentation used to characterize workplace 

atmospheres.

Performance Measure 2.4.2: By FY2016, complete a series of studies to evaluate test atmospheres with real-time and integrated laboratory and field-measurement instruments for 

a range of metrics, including particle number, 

size, and surface area. 
24 | Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce

Activity/Output Goal 2.4.3 (PPNANAOG2.4.3):

Conduct further research on the dustiness testing 

of powders and to benchmark the Venturi (University of North Carolina) dustiness testing device against a more traditional dustiness test (e.g., 

a standard method prescribed in EN 15051).

Performance Measure 2.4.3: By FY2015, compare the Venturi dustiness testing device against 

at least one other method for a range of fine 

and nanoscale materials.

Activity/Output Goal 2.4.4 (PPNANAOG2.4.4):

Conduct further research on determining the 

advantages and limitations of direct reading instruments in assessing nanoparticle work-place 

emissions and exposures.

Performance Measure 2.4.4: By FY2015, publish at least one further study on the performance of direct reading instruments for assessing nanoparticle emissions or exposures in the 

workplace.

Activity/Output Goal 2.4.5 (PPNANAOG2.4.5):

Develop and improve methods and approaches (including direct reading and time-integrated sampling) for assessing workplace exposures 

to ENMs. 

Performance Measure 2.4.5.1: By FY2015, 

publish updated strategies for assessing workplace exposures.

Performance Measure 2.4.5.2: By FY2015, 

validate method 5040 for a series of CNT including. NIST Standard Reference Material 248: Single-Wall Carbon Nanotubes (Raw 

Soot).

Activity/Output Goal 2.4.6 (PPNANAOG2.4.6):

Evaluate scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and dark-field microscopy as analytical tools for measurement of 

carbon nanotubes using NIST Standard Reference Material 248: Single-Wall Carbon Nanotubes (Raw Soot). 

Performance Measure 2.4.6: By FY2015, publish a microscopy method (or methods) for 

sample preparation, identification, and/or possible semi-quantification that is applicable to 

some ENMs. 

Activity/Output Goal 2.4.7 (PPNANAOG2.4.7):

Conduct research to advance the use of nanomaterials in the development of sensors (e.g., 

detection of harmful chemicals) and other health and safety–related applications that 

can be used in the workplace to ensure effective 

control of exposure.

Performance Measure 2.4.7.1: By FY2016, 

develop an effective sensor employing nanomaterials for the real-time measurement of a 

workplace agent, and publish the results.

Performance Measure 2.4.7.2: By FY2016, 

compile and publish a compendium on applications of nanotechnology to improve workplace safety and health.

Intermediate Goal 2.5 (PPNANIG2.5): Conduct research to better define the potential fire 

and explosion safety hazards of ENMs.

Activity/Output Goal 2.5.1 (PPNANAOG2.5.1):

Identify physical and chemical properties that 

contribute to dustiness, combustibility, flammability, explosibility, and electromagnetic hazards of ENMs. 

Performance Measure 2.5.1: By FY2014, publish preliminary findings from explosibility testing of some ENMs. 

Performance Measure 2.5.2: By FY2016, publish findings that may influence the National 

Fire Protection Association (NFPA) or Department of Transportation (DOT) flammability 

placard information and the DOT Emergency 

Response Guidebook.

Intermediate Goal 2.6 (PPNANIG2.6): Develop and use informatics to process and communicate information.
Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce | 25

Activity/Output Goal 2.6.1 (PPNANAOG2.6.1):

Create a harmonized database to share exposure 

measurement, control, and epidemiologic data. 

Performance Measure 2.6.1: By FY2015, have a 

populated dataset containing NIOSH results on 

measurement, control, and epidemiologic data.

Activity/Output Goal 2.6.2 (PPNANAOG2.6.2):

Lead the nanoinformatics community to develop an open literature monograph on nanoinformatics principles and practice.

Performance Measure 2.6.2: Complete and 

publish the nanoinformatics monograph by 

FY2015.

Strategic Goal 3 (PPNANSG3): Support the 

creation of guidance materials to inform 

nanomaterial workers, employers, health professionals, regulatory agencies, and decisionmakers about hazards, risks, and risk management approaches.

Intermediate Goal 3.1 (PPNANIG3.1): Develop 

categorical and specific exposure limits.

Activity/Output Goal 3.1.1(PPNANAOG3.1.1):

Conduct a risk assessment for high-volume 

ENMs.

Performance Measure 3.1.1: By FY2015, complete a quantitative risk assessment (QRA) on 

ultrafine and fine materials from existing studies. Evaluate QRA methods for nanomaterials. 

Start QRA for nanoparticles, with use of new 

NIOSH data. Use NIOSH nanoparticle data 

to calibrate and validate dosimetry models for 

nanoparticles. 

Activity/Output Goal 3.1.2 (PPNANAOG3.1.2):

Develop a risk-assessment framework for evaluating the hazard and predicting the risk of exposure to ENMs. 

Performance Measure 3.1.2: By 2017, develop a risk-assessment framework to rank hazard and estimate risk from exposure to selected 

ENMs in the workplace.

Activity/Output Goal 3.1.3 (PPNANAOG3.1.3):

Use a nanomaterial hazard banding classification scheme to group ENMs. 

Performance Measure 3.1.3: By FY2016, develop a hazard banding classification scheme 

for ENMs on the basis of toxicological, chemical, and physical properties. 

Intermediate Goal 3.2 (PPNANIG3.2): Conduct research to better understand engineering 

controls and PPE for use with ENMs.

Activity/Output Goal 3.2.1 (PPNANAOG3.2.1):

Evaluate the effectiveness of engineering control techniques for ENMs and develop new approaches as needed. 

Performance Measure 3.2.1: Conduct field 

investigations of workplaces where ENMs are 

manufactured and used to evaluate existing engineering controls and make recommendations 

on improving exposure control. By FY2015, 

publish case studies and workplace survey reports, and by FY 2016, publish updated engineering control solutions. 

Activity/Output Goal 3.2.2 (PPNANAOG3.2.2):

Conduct laboratory evaluations of commercially available engineering controls for a variety 

of common ENM production, handling, and 

downstream processes.

Performance Measure 3.2.2: By FY2016, publish in-depth reports and journal articles on the 

effectiveness of the commercially available engineering control devices. 

Activity/Output Goal 3.2.3 (PPNANAOG3.2.3):

Evaluate the effectiveness of PPE (respirators, 

and protective clothing including gloves) for 

reducing worker exposures to ENMs.

Performance Measure 3.2.3: By FY2016, publish updated guidance on the effectiveness of 

PPE for reducing worker exposures to ENMs. 

Intermediate Goal 3.3 (PPNANIG3.3): Incorporate Prevention through Design (PtD) into 

nanomaterial health and safety programs.
26 | Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce

Activity/Output Goal 3.3.1 (PPNANAOG3.3.1):

Promote PtD principles for nanomaterials, including safer nanomaterials that have the same 

functionality; process containment and control; and management system approaches to include occupational safety and health into the 

nanoparticle synthetic process, product development, and product manufacture.

Performance Measure 3.3.1: By FY2015, 

publish a document specific to PtD for nanomaterials.

Intermediate Goal 3.4 (PPNANIG3.4): Foster 

the collection, management, and dissemination 

of relevant information to protect nanomaterial workers.

Activity/Output Goal 3.4.1 (PPNANAOG3.4.1):

Develop and disseminate effective information, 

education, and training materials to various target audiences such as nanotechnology workers 

and employers, occupational safety and health 

professionals, policy-makers, decision-makers, 

and/or the scientific community.

Performance Measure 3.4.1.1: By FY2015, 

create nanomaterial guidance documents for 

workers, including small business and construction workers.

Performance Measures 3.4.1.2: By FY2015, 

update Approaches to Safe Nanotechnology: Managing the Safety and Health Concerns Associated 

with Engineered Nanomaterials.

Performance Measures 3.4.1.3: By FY2016, update the Progress Report on the NIOSH Nanotechnology Research and Communication Effort. 

Performance Measure 3.4.1.4: Create new 

guidance documents on use of engineering controls, PPE, and PtD, as per Performance Measures 3.2.1, 3.2.2, 3.2.3, and 3.3.1. 

Performance Measure 3.4.1.5: By FY2016, 

support a conference on risk management of 

ENMs, with a focus on engineering controls.

Performance Measure 3.4.1.6: By FY2016, 

evaluate Nanomaterial Safety Data Sheets for 

adherence with the updated OSHA HazCom 

rule (including the use of Global Harmonization System), and issue guidance documents 

based on the updated findings.

Intermediate Goal 3.5 (PPNANIG3.5): Enhance 

global workplace safety and health through international activities.

Activity/Output Goal 3.5.1 (PPNANAOG3.5.1):

Establish and maintain national and international partnerships so that knowledge gaps, research needs and priorities, approaches, and databases could be shared.

Performance Measure 3.5.1.1: Strengthen coordination of research through governmentlevel organizations such as the Organization 

for Economic Cooperation and Development 

(OECD) and United Nations (UN). 

Performance Measure 3.5.1.2: By FY2015, 

expand collaborations to developing nations.

Activity/Output Goal 3.5.2 (PPNANAOG3.5.2): 

Improve sharing critical data globally.

Performance Measure 3.5.2.1: By FY016, develop a global portal for information on ENMs 

relevant to occupational safety and health.

Performance Measure 3.5.2.2: If feasible, by 

FY2016 initiate the development of a global 

exposure registry database. 

Performance Measure 3.5.2.3: In FY2015, participate in OECD Nanomaterial Safety Testing 

Program by sponsoring nanomaterial testing and 

by data exchange. 

Activity/Output Goal 3.5.3 (PPNANAOG 3.5.3):

Lead the development of global standards on occupational safety and health for nanotechnology.

Performance Measure 3.5.3.1: Over the next 

3 years (FY2014–FY2016), lead the development of at least one standard in the International Organization for Standardization.
Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce | 27

Performance Measure 3.5.3.2: Over the next 3 

years (FY2014–FY2016), lead the development 

of at least one guidance document for the UN.

Performance Measure 3.5.3.3: Over the next 3 

years (FY2014–FY2016), lead the development 

of at least one guidance document for the OECD. 

Strategic Goal 4 (PPNANSG4): Support epidemiologic studies for nanomaterial workers, 

including medical, cross-sectional, prospective cohort, and exposure studies.

Intermediate Goal 4.1 (PPNANIG4.1): Conduct epidemiologic research and evaluate feasibility of conducting surveillance of nanomaterial workers.

Activity/Output Goal 4.1.1 (PPNANAOG4.1.1):

Complete the epidemiological health studies 

of U.S. workers exposed to CNTs and carbon 

nanofibers.

Performance Measure 4.1.1: By FY2016, 

complete data collection for industry-wide exposure and epidemiological studies of workers 

exposed to carbonaceous nanomaterials.

Activity/Output Goal 4.1.2 (PPNANAOG4.1.2):

Evaluate the need for and feasibility of initiating worker exposure registries for workers exposed to existing nanomaterials (e.g., titanium 

dioxide, CNTs) or producing and using new 

nanomaterials. 

Performance Measure 4.1.2: By FY2016, develop a template and begin population of worker exposure registries.

Activity/Output Goal 4.1.3 (PPNANAOG4.1.3):

Integrate nanotechnology safety and health 

guidance into existing hazard surveillance systems. Determine whether these systems are adequate by conducting evaluations.

Performance Measure 4.1.3: By FY2016, 

update NIOSH Current Intelligence Bulletin 

60: Interim Guidance for the Medical Screening and Hazard Surveillance of Workers Potentially Exposed to Engineered Nanoparticles 

[NIOSH 2009d]. 

Strategic Goal 5 (PPNANSG5): Assess and 

promote national and international adherence with risk management guidance.

Intermediate Goal 5.1 (PPNANIG5.1): Determine the extent to which control measures are 

being adopted by industry. Identify any barriers 

to use of controls and partner with business to 

address barriers.

Activity/Output Goal 5.1.1 (PPNANAOG 

5.1.1): Determine whether NIOSH or other 

precautionary guidance recommendations are 

being adopted by businesses. 

Performance Measure 5.1.1: Within the next 

3 years, conduct formal and informal assessments of the controls used in ENM-producing or -handling facilities. By FY2016, publish 

findings.

Activity/Output Goal 5.1.2 (PPNANAOG 5.1.2):

Develop a plan for industrial sectors where adherence to good risk-management practice is 

low.

Performance Measure 5.1.2: By 2016, publish 

a plan for intervening in industry sectors with 

low adherence to risk management guidance.

Activity/Output Goal 5.1.3 (PPNANAOG 5.1.3):

Develop a follow-back program for the field investigation activities.

Performance Measure 5.1.3: By 2014, have a 

follow-back program in place to determine if 

facilities are implementing suggestions from 

the field investigations.

Activity/Output Goal 5.1.4 (PPNANAOG 5.1.4):

Support the International Commission on Occupational Health (ICOH) and other organizations in assessing whether precautionary 

guidance recommendations are being adopted 

worldwide. 

Performance Measure 5.1.4: By 2016, support ICOH in developing a plan to address locations where adherence to good risk-management practice is low. 

Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce | 29

5 OUTPUTS 

A summary of NIOSH NTRC research outputs and accomplishments is presented in the 

report Filling the Knowledge Gaps for Safe Nanotechnology in the Workplace [NIOSH 2012a].

5.1 NIOSH Publications on 

Nanotechnology Since 2009

NIOSH NTRC scientists will continue to develop documentation that provides guidance 

and technical information for workers, employers, health professionals, regulatory agencies, 

and decision-makers in government, academia, 

industry, and labor. Examples of such documentation include the following:

• Current Intelligence Bulletin (CIB) 65, Occupational Exposure to Carbon Nanotubes 

and Carbon Nanofibers, DHHS (NIOSH) 

Publication No. 2013–145 [NIOSH 2013]. 

This document includes a recommended 

exposure limit for carbon nanotubes and 

nanofibers. It is available at http://www.cdc.

gov/niosh/docs/2013-145/.

• Filling the Knowledge Gaps for Safe Nanotechnology in the Workplace, DHHS 

(NIOSH) Publication No. 2013–101 

[NIOSH 2012a]. It is available at http://

www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/2013-101/. 

• Current Intelligence Bulletin (CIB) 63, Occupational Exposure to Titanium Dioxide, 

DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2011–

160 [NIOSH 2011]. This document includes a recommended exposure limit for 

both fine and ultrafine (nano) titanium 

dioxide (TiO2). It is available at http://

www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/2011-160/.

• General Safe Practices for Working with 

Engineered Nanomaterials in Research 

Laboratories, DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2012–147 [NIOSH 2012b]. 

It is available at http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/

docs/2012-147/ .

• NIOSH sponsored a supplement to the 

Journal of Occupational and Environmental 

Medicine, entitled Selected Papers from the 

Nanomaterials and Worker Health, Medical Surveillance, Exposure Registries and 

Epidemiologic Research Conference, July 

21–23, 2010 [ JOEM 53(6S):S1–S112]. 

• Progress Toward Safe Nanotechnology in 

the Workplace: A Report from the NIOSH 

Nanotechnology Research Center, DHHS 

(NIOSH) Publication No. 2010–104 

[NIOSH 2009a]. This document reports 

on the status of nanotechnology research 

conducted by the NIOSH NTRC in 

2007–2008. It is available at http://www.

cdc.gov/niosh/docs/2010-104/.

• Approaches to Safe Nanotechnology: Managing the Health and Safety Concerns Associated with Engineered Nanomaterials, DHHS 

(NIOSH) Publication No. 2009–125 

[NIOSH 2009c]. This document served 

a dual purpose of summarizing NIOSH’s 

current thinking and interim recommendations and fostering the exchange information to ensure that no worker suffers 

material impairment of safety or health as 

nanotechnology develops. It is available at 

http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/2009-125/.

• Interim Guidance for Medical Screening 

and Hazard Surveillance for Workers Potentially Exposed to Engineered Nanoparticles, 

DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2009–

116 [NIOSH 2009d]. This document 

recommended prudent precautionary interim measures for reducing work-related 

exposures and assessing potential risk. It 

is available at http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/

docs/2009-116/. 
30 | Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce

5.2 NIOSH Peer-Reviewed 

Publications

NIOSH NTRC scientists will continue to 

publish results of research as the data become 

available. More than 500 peer-reviewed articles 

were published between 2004 and 2012 that 

addressed scientific and technical issues in the 

field of nanotechnology. NIOSH will continue to evaluate the utility of its publications and 

their impact on the scientific, regulatory, and 

occupational health community. 

5.3 Sponsored Conferences

The NIOSH NTRC will continue to partner 

with others in sponsoring and conducting conferences on nanotechnology. To date, NIOSH 

has co-sponsored 15 international nanomaterial health and safety meetings. NTRC staff 

members also have participated on several scientific and technical panels convened by government agencies, nongovernmental agencies, 

and professional associations. 

5.4 Presentations 

NTRC staff will continue to deliver presentations nationally and internationally concerning 

occupational safety and health issues associated with nanotechnology, including presentations at scientific conferences and to trade and 

professional associations. To date, NTRC staff 

members have given more than 650 presentations on nanomaterial health and safety topics.
Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce | 31

6 RESEARCH TO PRACTICE (r2p)

Research to practice (r2p) involves the translation of research into products, practices, and usable information. The NIOSH NTRC nanotechnology strategic plan reflects the r2p vision 

to work with partners and stakeholders to translate research findings into NIOSH products (e.g., 

guidance documents, instrumentation, nanoparticle filtration methods, and exposure controls) 

that will be used to reduce or prevent worker injury and illness from nanotechnology. R2p also 

involves moving others to action. NIOSH will 

continue to work with national and international 

organizations to translate research to actions that 

will protect the nanomaterial workforce. 

6.1 Capacity Building through 

Technical Assistance

The NIOSH NTRC is currently collaborating with a number of industries to develop 

appropriate engineering controls and effective administrative practices for the safe 

handling of nanomaterials. Specifically, the 

NTRC will continue to work with industry and labor in evaluating workplace exposures to ENMs and provide recommendations that will minimize worker exposures. 

NIOSH has several complimentary resources that reside in the Health Hazard 

Evaluation, Industrywide Study, and Engineering Control Technology Programs that 

can provide expertise in augmenting ongoing NTRC efforts of evaluating workplace 

nanoparticle exposures, related health effects, and risk management efforts.The 

NIOSH NTRC will continue to make recommendations and provide information 

based on its research and findings reported in the published scientific literature. The 

recommendations will pertain to all areas of 

risk management described in Section 4.1. 

Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce | 33

7 INTERMEDIATE CUSTOMERS

 AND INTERMEDIATE OUTCOMES

7.1 Federal Government Agencies

NIOSH will conduct and coordinate research 

with other agencies to foster the responsible 

development and safe use of nanotechnology, 

as identified by the NNI. Specifically, NIOSH 

will continue to collaborate with OSHA, EPA, 

NIST, NIEHS, and the Consumer Product 

Safety Commission (CPSC).

7.2 Standards Development 

Organizations 

NIOSH actively participates in the development of national and international standards 

for promoting the health and safety of workers 

in the nanotechnology industries. The NIOSH 

NTRC participates in the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Nanotechnology Standards Steering Panel, which coordinates 

the identification and development of critical 

standards in all areas of nanotechnology. 

NIOSH NTRC scientists also participate in the 

ASTM International E56 Committee on Nanotechnology, which is developing an integrated 

family of standards. Committee E56.03 is addressing environmental and occupational safety and health. 

NIOSH NTRC scientists will continue leading 

as chair and members of the U.S. Technical Advisory Group to the International Organization 

for Standardization (ISO) Technical Committee 229 on Nanotechnologies (ISO TC 229). 

Work on instrumentation-related standards will 

continue with committees of the International 

Electrotechnical Commission (IEC).

NIOSH NTRC scientists will also continue collaboration on the development of nanotechnology-related guidance with authoritative 

bodies including the National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements.

7.3 Industry, Labor, and Academia 

NIOSH is coordinating input from industry, 

labor, academics, and a wide range of government agencies in creating guidance for occupational health surveillance. Additionally, the 

NIOSH NTRC plans to coordinate input 

from those same groups of partners and stakeholders with the goal of developing standardized data systems for epidemiological research 

in workplaces producing and using nanomaterials. Through collaborations with industry, 

government, and academia, NIOSH [2009c] 

has developed a “best practices” document, 

Approaches to Safe Nanotechnology: Managing 

the Health and Safety Concerns Associated with 

Engineered Nanomaterials [DHHS (NIOSH) 

Publication No. 2009–125; http://www.cdc.

gov/niosh/docs/2009-125/] and will continue 

to develop other communication materials on 

the safe handling of ENMs. NIOSH NTRC is 

continuing to work with industry to characterize occupational exposure to ENMs and implement effective risk-management practices 

to minimize worker exposure to ENMs. 

7.4 Professional Organizations

NIOSH is collaborating with various professional organizations, including the American 

Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA) and 
34 | Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce

National Safety Council (NSC), to identify 

mutual efforts for developing new worker training programs. 

7.5 Research Collaborations

NIOSH has established several national and 

international collaborations to advance research into the safe use of nanotechnology. The 

NIOSH NTRC participates in the National 

Nanotechnology Initiative (NNI) and has contributed to the nanotechnology environmental, 

health, and safety (EH&S) research strategy for 

the nation through the working group of Nanotechnology Environmental and Health Implications (NEHI). NIOSH’s strategic research 

plan and activities have been developed to address the occupational safety and health issues 

in the NSET/NEHI plan [NNI 2011]. 

7.6 International Activities 

NIOSH will continue to engage with a number of international entities at all levels—as principle investigator as well as in national, regional, and global organizations. At the national 

organization level, the NIOSH NTRC has 

been communicating and collaborating with 

the United Kingdom Institute of Occupational 

Medicine and the Health and Safety Laboratory; the Netherlands Organization for Applied 

Scientific Research (TNO); the French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational 

Health and Safety (ANSES); the Finnish Institute of Occupational Health; and the Australian Safety and Compensation Council (Safe 

Work Australia).

NIOSH is collaborating with the OECD to 

build cooperation, coordination, and communication between the United States and 30 

OECD member countries, including the European Union (EU), and more than 180 nonmember economies. NIOSH is also working with the UN World Health Organization 

(WHO); the UN International Labour Organization (ILO); the International Organization for Standardization (ISO); the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), the 

International Commission on Occupational 

Health (ICOH); and the International Council on Nanotechnology (ICON) on global projects of information dissemination and communication.
Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce | 35

8 OUTCOMES

Nanotechnology is a rapidly developing area of 

science and technology that promises great benefits. To realize these benefits, it is important to 

protect workers potentially exposed to ENMs 

in nanomaterial research, production, and use 

[Schulte and Salamanca-Buentello 2007; Nasterlack et al. 2008; Howard and Murashov 

2009]. The NIOSH NTRC strategic plan is designed to identify and create the information 

needed for risk management programs that will 

control and prevent negative impacts on worker health. Outcomes of the NIOSH NTRC research will be translated into products that can 

be used by the nanotechnology community to 

develop and implement appropriate risk management practices to minimize worker exposure 

to ENMs. NIOSH also will evaluate how research results and risk management guidance 

developed by NIOSH influence others to take 

action to prevent exposure to hazards related to 

ENMs. 

NIOSH will assess the extent to which its research efforts have addressed each element of 

the risk management process (illustrated in Figure 6) and determine how the outcomes of research have influenced others to take action to 

prevent exposure to hazards related to ENMs. 

NIOSH will publish a report of its research 

outcomes for the 2013–2016 period. A summary of proposed research for FY2013–2014 and 

FY2015–2016 is shown in Appendix B

Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce | 37

REFERENCES 

Gibbs L [2006]. Presentation at the annual 

meeting of the Campus Safety Health and Environmental Management Association (CSHEMA), Anaheim, CA, July 15–19. 

Howard J, Murashov V [2009]. National nanotechnology partnership to protect workers. J 

Nanopart Res 11:1673–1683.

ISO [2008]. Nanotechnologies: terminology 

and definitions for nano-objects—nanoparticle, 

nanofibre and nanoplate. ISO/TS 27687. Geneva, Switzerland: International Organization for 

Standardization.

Murashov V, Schulte PA, Howard J [2012]. 

Progression of occupational risk management 

with advances in nanomaterials. J Occup Environ Health 9:D12–D22.

Nasterlack M, Zober A, Oberlinner C [2008]. 

Considerations in occupational medical surveillance of employees handling nanoparticles. Int 

Arch Occup Environ Health 81:721–726.

NIOSH [2007]. Progress toward safe nanotechnology in the workplace. Cincinnati, OH: 

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute for Occupational Safety 

and Health, DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 

2007–123.

NIOSH [2009a]. Progress toward safe nanotechnology in the workplace: a report from the 

NIOSH Nanotechnology Research Center. 

Cincinnati, OH: U.S. Department of Health and 

Human Services, Centers for Disease Control 

and Prevention, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, DHHS (NIOSH) 

Publication No. 2010–104.

NIOSH [2009b]. Strategic plan for NIOSH 

nanotechnology research and guidance. Cincinnati, OH: U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute for Occupational Safety 

and Health, DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 

2010–105.

NIOSH [2009c]. Approaches to safe nanotechnology: managing the health and safety concerns 

associated with engineered nanomaterials. Cincinnati, OH: U.S. Department of Health and 

Human Services, Centers for Disease Control 

and Prevention, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, DHHS (NIOSH) 

Publication No. 2009–125. 

NIOSH [2009d]. Interim guidance for medical screening and hazard surveillance for workers potentially exposed to engineered nanoparticles. Cincinnati, OH: U.S. Department of 

Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute 

for Occupational Safety and Health, DHHS 

(NIOSH) Publication No. 2009–116.

NIOSH [2011]. Current intelligence bulletin 63: occupational exposure to titanium dioxide. Cincinnati, OH: U.S. Department of 

Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute 

for Occupational Safety and Health, DHHS 

(NIOSH) Publication No. 2011–160.

NIOSH [2012a]. Filling the knowledge gaps: a 

report from the NIOSH Nanotechnology Research Center, from inception in 2004 through 

2011. Cincinnati, OH: U.S. Department of 

Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute 

for Occupational Safety and Health, DHHS 

(NIOSH) Publication No. 2013–101.

NIOSH [2012b]. General safe practices for working with engineered nanomaterials in research 

laboratories. Cincinnati, OH: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers 
38 | Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce

for Disease Control and Prevention, National 

Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, 

DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2012–147.

NNI [2001]. National Nanotechnology Initiative: interagency agreement. Washington, DC: 

United States Executive Office of the President, Office of Science and Technology Policy 

[http://www.nano.gov/html/about/home_about.

html].

NNI [2011]. National Nanotechnology Initiative: environmental, health, and safety research 

strategy. Washington, DC: United States Executive Office of the President, Office of Science 

and Technology Policy, Nanotechnology Environmental and Health Implications (NEHI) 

Working Group.

NRC [2009]. Science and decisions:advancing 

risk assessment. Committee on improving risk 

analysis approaches used by the U.S. EPA, 

Board on Environmental Studies and Toxicology, Division on Earth and Life Studies, National Research Council of the National Academies.

NSF [2011]. Nanotechnology research directions for societal needs in 2020: retrospective 

and outlook summary. National Science Foundation. In: Roco M, Mirkin C, Hersan M, eds. 

Science Policy Reports. New York: Springer 

(DOI: 10.1007/978-94-007-1168-6_5). 

Schulte, P, Geraci C, Zumwalde R, Hoover M, 

Castranova V, Kuempel E, Murashov V, Vainio 

H, Savolainen K [2008a]. Sharpening the focus on occupational safety and health of nanotech-nology. Scan J Work Environ Health 

34(6):471–478.

Schulte P, Geraci C, Zumwalde R, Hoover M, 

Kuempel E [2008b]. Occupational risk management of engineered nanoparticles. J Occup 

Environ Hyg 5:239–249.

Schulte PA, Salamanca-Buentello F [2007]. 

Ethical and scientific issues of nanotechnology in the workplace. Environ Health Perspect 

115:5–12.

Schulte PA, Schubauer-Berigan MK, Mayweather C, Geraci CL, Zumwalde R, McKernan JL [2009]. Issues in the development 

of epidemiologic studies of workers exposed 

to engineered nanoparticles. J Occup Environ 

Med 51(3):323–335.
Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce | 39

Appendix A

Comprehensive Chart of the NNI 2011

EHS Research Needs

[National Nanotechnology Initiative: Environmental, Health, and Safety Research Strategy. 

Washington, DC: United States Executive Office of the President, Office of Science and Technology Policy, Nanotechnology Environmental and Health Implications (NEHI) Working 

Group, Table D–1.] 
40 | Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce 

Key Research Needs Subordinate Research Needs

1. Nanomaterial Measurement Infrastructure Research Needs

Develop measurement tools to detect and identify engineered nanoscale materials in products and relevant matrices and determine their physico-chemical properties throughout all stages of their life cycles.

Develop measurement tools for determination of biological response and to enable assessment of hazards 

and exposure for humans and the environment from engineered nanomaterials and nanotechnology-based 

products throughout all stages of their life cycles.

RN#1. Develop measurement 

tools for determination of 

physico-chemical properties of 

ENMs in relevant media and 

during the life cycles of ENMs 

and NEPs

• Physical dimensions and morphology: size, size distribution, characteristic dimensions, shape

• Internal structure: atomic-molecular, core-shell

• Surface and interfacial properties: surface charge, zeta potential, 

surface structure, elemental composition, surface-bound molecular 

coatings and conjugates, reactivity

• Bulk composition: elemental or molecular composition, crystalline 

phase(s)

• Dispersion properties: degree and state of dispersion

• Mobility and other transport properties: diffusivity, transport in 

biological and environmental matrices

RN#2. Develop measurement 

tools for detection and monitoring of ENMs in realistic exposure media and conditions 

during the life cycles of ENMs 

and NEPs

• Sampling and collection of ENMs

• Detecting the presence of ENMs

• Quantity of ENMs-concentration based on surface area, mass, and 

number concentrations

• Size and size distribution of ENMs

• Spatial distribution of ENMs

• Discriminating ENMs from ambient NMs such as combustion 

products and welding fumes

• Discriminating multiple types of ENMs such as metals and metal 

oxides

RN#3. Develop measurement 

tools for evaluation of transformations of ENMs in relevant 

media and during the life cycles of ENMs and NEPs

• Agglomeration and de-agglomeration

• Dissolution and solubility

• Absorption of natural organic matter and bioconstituents

• Oxidation and reduction

• Deposition of ENMs on surfaces

(continued)

Table D–1. The Core EHS Research Categories and their Highest-Priority Research Needs (RNs)
Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce | 41

Key Research Needs Subordinate Research Needs

RN#4. Develop measurement 

tools for evaluation of biological responses to ENMs and 

NEPs in relevant media and 

during the life cycles of ENMs 

and NEPs

• Adequacy of existing assays

• New assays or high-throughput, high content assays

• Correlation of biological responses with physico-chemical

properties

• Surface reactivity at the interfaces between ENMs and biological 

receptors

• Biomarkers of toxicological response

RN#5. Develop measurement 

tools for evaluation of release 

mechanisms of ENMs from 

NEPs in relevant media and 

during the life cycles of NEPs

• Release by fire, combustion, and incineration

• Release by mechanical degradation, such as abrasion, deformation, 

and impact

• Release by dissolution of matrix material

• Release by chemical reactions of the matrix material

• Release by photo-induced degradation of the matrix material

• Release by consumer interactions, such as spraying, mouthing, and 

swallowing

• Release by interactions with biological organisms in the environment

2. Human Exposure Assessment Research Needs

Identify potential sources, characterize the exposure scenarios, and quantify actual exposures of workers, 

the general public and consumers to nanomaterials.

Characterize and identify the health outcomes among exposed populations in conjunction with information about the control strategies used and exposures to determine practices that result in safe levels of exposure.

RN#1. Understand processes 

and factors that determine exposures to nanomaterials

• Conduct studies to understand processes and factors that determine exposure to engineered nanomaterials

• Develop exposure classifications of nanomaterials and processes

• Develop internationally harmonized and validated protocols for 

exposure surveys, sample collection and analysis, and reporting 

through existing and newly created international frameworks

• Develop comprehension predictive models for exposures to a 

broad range of engineered nanomaterials and processes

• Characterize process- and task-specific exposure scenarios in the 

workplace

(continued)

Table D–1 (Continued). The Core EHS Research Categories and their Highest-Priority Research Needs (RNs)
42 | Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce 

Key Research Needs Subordinate Research Needs

RN#2. Identify population 

groups exposed to engineered 

nanomaterials

• Systematically collect and analyze information about nanomaterial manufacture, processing, and direct use in commercial and 

consumer products over time to discern geographic areas where 

engineered nanomaterials may be emitted into the environment, 

consumed in the form of ingredients of products, and/or disposed 

of in solid waste, wastewater, etc.

• Conduct population-based surveys to obtain information on use 

patterns for consumer products

• Identify potential subpopulations that are more susceptible to 

exposure to engineered nanomaterials than others

• Develop quantitative assessment methods appropriate for target 

population groups and conduct assessments of those population 

groups most likely to be exposed to engineered nanomaterials

RN#3. Characterize individual 

exposures to nanomaterials

• Expand currently available exposure assessment techniques to 

facilitate more accurate exposure assessment for engineered 

nanomaterials at benchmark concentration levels using feasible 

methods

• Develop new tools through national and international surveys to 

support effective exposure characterization of individuals

• Characterize and detect nanomaterials in biological matrices and 

conduct studies to understand transformations of nanomaterials 

during transport in the environment and in human bodies

• Conduct studies to examine emissions and human contact during 

normal use and after wear and tear have degraded a product, as 

well as during repeated exposures

• Develop engineered nanomaterials exposure assessment models 

based on identified critical exposure descriptions

• Develop databases to contain the collected data and information

RN#4. Conduct health surveillance of exposed populations• Establish a program for the epidemiological investigations of 

physician case reports and reports of suspicious pattern of adverse 

events

• Establish exposure registry and medical surveillance programs for 

workers

• Analyze injury and illness reporting in existing programs

(continued)

Table D–1 (Continued). The Core EHS Research Categories and their Highest-Priority Research Needs (RNs)
Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce | 43

Key Research Needs Subordinate Research Needs

3. Human Health Research Needs

Understand the relationship of physico-chemical properties of engineered nanoscale materials to in vivo

physico-chemical properties and biological response.

Develop high-confidence predictive models of in vivo biological responses and casual physico-chemical 

properties of ENMs.

RN#1. Identify or develop appropriate, reliable, and reproducible in vitro and in vivo

assays and models to predict 

in vivo human responses to 

ENMs

• Establish a system to develop and apply reliable and reproducible 

in vitro and in vivo test methods

• Evaluate the degree to which an in vitro response correlates with 

an in vivo response

• Evaluate the degree to which in vitro and in vivo models predict 

human response

• Translate structure-activity relationship and other research data 

into computational models to predict toxicity in silico

RN#2. Quantify and characterize ENMs in exposure matrices and biological matrices• Determine critical ENM measurands in biological and environmental matrices and ensure the development of tools to measure 

ENMs in appropriate matrices as needed

• Determine matrix and/or weathering effects that may alter the 

physico-chemical characteristics of the ENM measurands

• Identify key factors that may influence the detection of each measurand in a particular matrix (e.g., sample preparation, detection 

method, storage, temperature, solvents/solutions)

• Characterize and quantify exposure for all exposure routes using in 

vivo models to identify the most likely routes of human exposure

• Identify biomarkers of exposure and analytical methods for their 

determination

RN#3. Understand the relationship between the physicochemical properties of ENMs 

and their transport, distribution, metabolism, excretion, 

and body burden in the human body

• Characterize ENM physico-chemical properties and link to 

mechanisms of transport and distribution in the human body

• Understand the relationship of the physico-chemical properties of 

ENMs to the mechanisms of sequestration in and translocation of 

ENMs out of the exposure organ and secondary organs, and to routes 

of excretion from the human body

• Determine the metabolism or biological transformation of ENMs 

in the human body

(continued)

Table D–1 (Continued). The Core EHS Research Categories and their Highest-Priority Research Needs (RNs)
44 | Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce 

Key Research Needs Subordinate Research Needs

RN#4. Understand the relationship between the physicochemical properties of ENMs 

and uptake through the human 

port-of-entry tissues

• Characterize ENMs at and in port-of-entry tissues, including 

nontraditional routes of entry such as the ear and eye, and identify 

mechanisms of ENM uptake into tissues

• Determine the relationship of ENM physico-chemical properties 

to deposition and uptake under acute exposure conditions and 

under chronic exposure conditions

• Translate data on ENM properties and uptake to knowledge that 

may be used to intentionally redesign ENMs for optimum human 

and environmental safety and product efficacy

RN#5. Determine the modes 

of action underlying the human 

biological response to ENMs 

at the molecular, cellular, tissue, 

organ, and whole body levels

• Determine the dose response and time course of biological 

responses at the primary site of exposure and at distal organs following ENM exposure

• Understand the mechanisms and molecular pathway(s) associated 

with ENM biology within cellular, organ, and whole organism 

systems

• Link mechanisms of response with ENM physico-chemical properties and employ this information in the design and development 

of future ENMs

• Develop translational alternative in vitro testing methods for 

the rapid screening of future ENMs based on mechanism(s) of 

response that are predictive of in vivo biological responses

RN#6. Determine the extent 

to which life stage and/or susceptibility factors modulate 

health effects associated with 

exposure to ENMs and nanotechnology-enabled products 

and applications

• Determine the effect of life stage and/or gender on biological 

response to ENMs

• Establish the role of genetic and epigenetic susceptibility on the 

biological response to ENMs in the context of life stage and/or 

susceptibility factors

• Understand mechanistically the influence of preexisting disease on 

the biological response to ENMs in the context of life stage and 

other susceptibility factors

• Identify exposure conditions that make susceptible individuals 

more vulnerable to the health effects associated with ENMs and 

nanotechnology-enabled applications

• Establish a database that contains published, peer-reviewed literature, occupational and consumer reports, and toxicological profiles 

that describe altered responses to ENMs and nanotechnologyenabled applications in susceptible animal models or individuals 

following exposure

(continued)

Table D–1 (Continued). The Core EHS Research Categories and their Highest-Priority Research Needs (RNs)
Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce | 45

Key Research Needs Subordinate Research Needs

4. Environment Research Needs

Understand the environmental fate, exposure, and ecological effects of engineered nanomaterials, with 

priority placed on materials with highest potential for release, exposure, and/or hazard to the environment.

RN#1. Understand environmental exposures through 

the identification of principal 

sources of exposure and exposure routes

• Manufacturing processes and product incorporation

• Life cycle of technology and exposures subsequent to product 

manufacturing

• Analytical approaches to measure temporal changes in nanoparticle properties throughout the life cycle

• Models to estimate releases

• Environmental receptors for exposure assessment

RN#2. Determine factors affecting the environmental 

transport of nanomaterials

• Determine key physico-chemical properties affecting transport

• Determine key transport and fate processes relevant to environmental media

• Develop new tools and adaptation of current predictive tools to 

accommodate unique properties of nanomaterials

RN#3. Understand the transformation of nanomaterials 

under different environmental 

conditions

• Identify and evaluate nanomaterial properties and transformation 

processes that will reduce environmental persistence, toxicity, and 

production of toxic products

• Determine the rate of aggregation and long-term stability of 

agglomeration/aggregation and the long-term stability of these 

aggregates and agglomerates

• Develop tools to predict the transformations or degradability of 

nanomaterials

RN#4. Understand the effects 

of engineered nanomaterials on 

individuals of a species and the 

applicability of testing schemes 

to measure effects

• Test protocols

• Dose-response characterization

• Uptake/elimination kinetics, tissue/organ distribution

• Mode/mechanism of action, predictive tools

• Tiered testing schemes/environmental realism

RN#5. Evaluate the effects of 

engineered nanomaterials at 

the population, community, 

and ecosystem levels

• Population

• Community

• Other ecosystem-level effects

• Predictive tools for population-, community-, and ecosystem-level 

effects

(continued)

Table D–1 (Continued). The Core EHS Research Categories and their Highest-Priority Research Needs (RNs)
46 | Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce 

Key Research Needs Subordinate Research Needs

5. Risk Assessment and Risk Management Methods Research Needs

Increase available information for better decision making in assessing and managing risks from nanomaterials, including using comparative risk assessment and decision analysis; life cycle considerations; and 

additional perspectives such as ELSI considerations, stakeholders’ values, and additional decision makers’ 

considerations.

RN#1. Incorporate relevant 

risk characterization information, hazard identification, exposure science, and risk modeling and methods into the 

safety evaluation of nanomaterials

• Characterization, fate, and release of nanoparticles throughout the 

life cycles of nanotechnology-enabled products

• Development of predictive models on accumulation, migration, 

and release of nanoparticles throughout the life cycles of nanotechnology-enabled products

• Safety of nanoparticles throughout the life cycles of the nanotechnology-enabled products

• Comprehensive and predictive models to assess the potential risks 

of nanoparticles during the manufacturing and life cycle of nanoproducts, with inputs from human and environment exposures 

and on nanomaterial properties

RN#2. Understand, characterize, and control workplace exposures to nanomaterials• Dissemination and implementation of effective techniques and 

protocols to measure exposures in the workplace

• Identification and demonstration of effective containment and 

control technologies including for accidents and spills

• Development of an effective industry surveillance system

• Design and deployment of a prospective epidemiological framework relevant to exposure science

• Systematic approaches for occupational risk modeling

RN#3. Integrate life cycle considerations into risk assessment• Establishment of nanotechnology-specific taxonomy for life cycle 

stages

• Integration of risk assessment, life cycle analyses, and decisionmaking approaches into regulatory decision making processes

• Application of adaptive management tools based on monitoring/

implementation to evaluate life cycle analysis implementation

• Development of case studies, e.g., green chemistry, nanomaterials 

selection, nanomaterials acquisition process, illustrating application of these risk management methods

(continued)

Table D–1 (Continued). The Core EHS Research Categories and their Highest-Priority Research Needs (RNs)
Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce | 47

Key Research Needs Subordinate Research Needs

RN#4. Integrate risk assessment into decision-making 

frameworks for risk management

• Development of comparative risk assessment and formal decisionanalytical methods as opposed to “absolute” risk assessment strategies

• Application of formal decision-analytical methods to prioritize 

risk management alternatives

• Use of gap analyses and value of information analysis to identify 

research needs

• Integration of stakeholder values and risk perceptions into risk 

management processes

• Application of integrated decision framework through case studies 

in risk management decision making

RN#5. Integrate and standardize risk communication within the risk management framework• Development and use of standardized terminology in risk

communications

• Early information-sharing on hazards and risk among Federal 

agencies

• Development of appropriate risk communication approaches for 

agency-specific needs

Informatics and Modeling Research Need

RN#1. Develop computational models of ENM structureproperty-activity relationships 

to support the design and development of ENM with maximum benefit and minimum 

risk to humans and the environment

• Validate the predictive capability of in vitro and in vivo assays 

and employ that subset of assays in data generation to establish 

computational models to predict ENM behavior in humans and 

the environment

• Establish a standard set of physical and chemical characterization 

parameters, dose metrics, and biological response metrics

• Design and establish structures and ontologies for methods development, data capture, sharing, and analysis

• Evaluate and adapt as necessary existing computational models by 

beginning with existing models for exposure and dosimetry and 

using data generated from validated assays

• Use ENM exposure and dosimetry models to develop ENM 

structure-activity models to predict ENM behavior in humans 

and the environment

• Establish training sets and beta test sites to refine and validate 

ENM structure-activity models

• Disseminate ENM structure-activity models through publicly accessible nanotechnology websites

Table D–1 (Continued). The Core EHS Research Categories and their Highest-Priority Research Needs (RNs)

Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce | 49

APPENDIX B 

Timeline for NIOSH Nanotechnology Research 

Summary of Proposed Research Projects, FY2013–FY2014

Critical research area Projects

Toxicity and

Internal Dose

Evaluate long-term fibrogenic and carcinogenic potential of carbon nanotubes and carbon nanofibers.

Determine immune and cardiovascular responses to pulmonary exposure 

to CNT, TiO2, and nanosilver.

Evaluate the pulmonary effects of nanosilver.

Measurement Methods Develop updated methods and approaches to assess occupational exposures to nanomaterials.

Utilize reference materials and technically sound protocols to improve 

measurement quality.

Develop techniques to characterize nanoparticles, using advanced microscopy methods.

Study the performance of direct reading instruments for assessing emissions and exposure to nanoparticles in the workplace.

Exposure Assessment Complete evaluation of workplace exposures to emerging, secondgeneration, and third-generation ENMs and their potential routes

of exposure.

Complete evaluation of size, concentration, and morphology of ENMs 

emitted by various processes.

Epidemiology and

Surveillance

Evaluate occupational exposures among carbonaceous

nanomaterial workers.

Complete field work for a cross-sectional epidemiologic survey among 

workers exposed to carbonaceous nanomaterials.

Collect data on specific biomarkers as markers of exposure or early health 

endpoints in workers exposed to carbon nanotubes or carbon nanofibers.

(continued)
50 | Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce

Critical research area Projects

Risk Assessment Develop a strategy and criteria to utilize the best available scientific data 

to develop hazard- and risk-based occupational exposure limits and other 

risk management guidance.

Identify nanomaterial categories by physicochemical properties and biological mode of action, and perform case study evaluations for nanomaterials within each major category.

Analyze toxicity data, including identifying the adverse health 

endpoint(s) and performing dose-response analyses and/or comparative 

potency analyses.

Contribute to the development and evaluation of dosimetry models and 

methods to assess internal dose of nanomaterials in workers.

Engineering Controls

and PPE

Conduct field studies to assess and improve engineering control strategies 

in the workplace.

Evaluate effectiveness of commercially available engineering controls in 

the laboratory.

Finalize development of a standardized aerosol test method using magnetic passive aerosol samplers for testing of protective clothing material. 

Expand particulate penetration project to include evaluation of different 

types of fabrics, use of electrostatic charges, and bellows effects.

Evaluate balance between comfort and protection of protective clothing 

and gloves with ENMs.

Fire and Explosion Safety Evaluate nano metals and other ENMs for fire and explosion potential.

Evaluate a variety of ENMs for electromagnetic hazard potential.

Correlate dustiness of ENMs with various physical and chemical

safety hazards.

Evaluate current DOT and NFPA guidance for adequacy with ENMs.

Provide recommendations to first responders about safety issues

of ENMs.

Recommendations

and Guidance

Continue conducting r2p activities (ongoing), such as developing brochures and fact sheets and updating the topic page. 

Develop a small business guide for nanomaterial producers and users.

Summary of Proposed Research Projects, FY2013–FY2014

(continued)
Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce | 51

Critical research area Projects

Applications Further develop and refine end-of-service indicators using nanomaterials.

Global Activities Strengthen participation with globally recognized organizations ICON, 

ISO, OECD, and UN (WHO, ILO).

Participate in the US/EU nanomaterial working groups hosted by the 

NNI.

Summary of Proposed Research Projects, FY2013–FY2014
52 | Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce

Summary of Proposed Research Projects for FY2015–FY2016

Critical research area Projects

Toxicity and Internal Dose Identify biomarkers of response to ENMs.

Develop predictive algorithms for relationships between nanoparticle 

properties and bioactivity.

Determine the relevance of in vitro and in vivo screening tests.

Evaluate the pulmonary and systemic effects of graphene and nanocellulose.

Measurement Methods Publish updated exposure measurement methods.

Assist with round-robin evaluations of ENM reference materials.

Exposure Assessment Publish exposure results.

Provide guidance on exposure assessment methods and sampling protocols.

Epidemiology and

Surveillance

Analyze biomarker samples from cross-sectional epidemiologic study of 

carbon nanotube and nanofiber workers.

Analyze data (medical and biomarker with exposure) from cross-sectional 

epidemiologic study of carbon nanotube and nanofiber workers.

Begin collecting data for exposure registry and prospective epidemiologic study among carbon nanotube–exposed and carbon nanofiber–exposed 

workers.

Assess feasibility of epidemiologic study of health outcomes among workers exposed to nanomaterials other than carbonaceous nanomaterials.

Risk Assessment Extend evaluations of the hazard and risk of workplace exposure to new 

nanomaterials.

Utilize the latest data from toxicity studies, workplace exposure measurements, and/or biomonitoring data to identify potential hazards in the respiratory tract and/or other organs.

Contribute to the refinement and validation of dosimetry models for 

nanomaterials. 

Contribute to the evaluation and development or updating of recommended exposure limits and other risk management guidance.

(continued)
Protecting the Nanotechnology Workforce | 53

Critical research area Projects

Engineering Controls

and PPE

Continue to assess engineering controls in the field and update recommendations for controlling exposure.

Continue to evaluate commercially available engineering controls in the 

lab and publish test results.

Evaluate respirator performance with ENMs in laboratory and workplace 

settings.

Develop a passive method for measuring particle penetration through 

protective clothing materials.

Fire & Explosion Safety Continue evaluation of various ENMs for fire and explosion potential.

Evaluate a variety of ENMs for electromagnetic hazard potential.

Correlate dustiness of ENMs with various physical and chemical safety 

hazards. 

Publish findings in journals and provide summaries to DOT and NFPA. 

Recommendations and 

Guidance

Update Approaches to Safe Nanotechnology

Develop hazard bands and RELs for high-volume commercially available 

ENMs.

Applications Evaluate ENM-enabled PPE.

Global Activities Lead or co-lead committees with globally recognized organizations: 

ICON, ISO, OECD, and UN (WHO, ILO).

NOTE: DOT, Department of Transportation; ENMs, engineered nanomaterials; ICON, International Council on 

Nanotechnology; ILO, International Labour Organization; ISO, International Organization for Standardization; 

NFPA, National Fire Protection Association; NNI, National Nanotechnology Initiative; OECD, Organization for 

Economic Cooperation and Development; PPE, personal protective equipment; UN, United Nations; WHO, World 

Health Organization.

Summary of Proposed Research Projects for FY2015–FY2016 (Continued)
To receive NIOSH documents or more information about 

occupational safety and health topics, contact NIOSH at

1–800–CDC–INFO (1–800–232–4636)

TTY: 1–888–232–6348

CDC INFO: www.cdc.gov/info

or visit the NIOSH website at www.cdc.gov/niosh.

For a monthly update on news at NIOSH, subscribe to NIOSH 

eNews by visiting www.cdc.gov/niosh/eNews.

DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2014–106

safer • healthier • peopleTM

Delivering on the Nation’s promise:

safety and health at work for all people

through research and prevention