https://doi.org/10.33573/ujoh2013.04.047
Demetska A. V., Andrusishina I. M., Tkachenko T. Yu.
SI «Institute for Occupational Health of NAMS of Ukraine», Kyiv
Background. The number of persons exposure occupationally to technogeneous nanoparticles increases; there are no hygienic regulations and safety standards for persons working with nanomaterials.
Aim. Risk evaluation for persons engaged in production of nanoparticles for industrial and research purposes.
Materials and methods. The content of chemical elements in samples was defined using ICP-AES method on the Optima 2100 DV, Perkin-Elmer, USA. The concentration of nanoparticles in the working zone air was measured with DAS-2707, Russia. The risk assessment was performed using a “control banding” approach.
Results. On the basis of deviations of the content a number of nanosized elements in the working zone air from the TLV values, calculated by safety coefficients for nanomaterials for E-beam device UE-202 operator, planetary mill operator and electric welder work conditions at their workplaces can be referred to the third Class, fourth degree (3.4.). Even irregular operations in production of nanomaterials using mechanosynthesis in the planetary mill are characterized by the significant risk to workers, which can be compared with risk levels at the welder’s workplace.
Conclusions. Low levels of quantitative concentration of nanoparticles in the working zone air do not always correspond to risk levels for workers. In the working area of premises, where nanomaterials are produced or used, there is the background level of nanoparticles. It should be noted that, when the current health standards for harmful substances in the air of the working area are not exceeded, the exceeding TLV values for nanomaterials, calculated by safety coefficients factors, can occur.
Keywords: nanoparticles, air of the working zone, risk level
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