Nanotechnology: Old Theories and New Concepts

Description

This course is designed to introduce the practicing occupational hygienist to fundamental issues involved in the evaluation and control of exposures to engineered nanoparticles (ENPs). The course will cover five topics: a brief overview of ENP toxicity; fundamentals of aerosols; evaluation of nanoparticle exposure; engineering control of nanoparticle exposure; and the use of respirators and other PPE. Experts from the NTWG and the Aerosol, Engineering, and PPE committees will discuss how each of their areas of expertise can be applied to evaluate and reduce exposures to ENPs. Participants will build on their fundamental knowledge of occupational hygiene and apply that knowledge to the special issues presented by nanotechnology.

Learning Aids

Participants must bring a scientific calculator.

Value Added

Participants will learn how to apply knowledge of occupational hygiene to the specialized topic of engineered nanoparticle exposure.

Outcomes

Upon completion, participants will be able to:

• Explain nanotechnology’s role in today’s society and today’s workplace.
• Define basic aerosol science principles relevant to nanoparticles.
• Conduct a basic workplace evaluation for nanotechnology hazards.
• Apply the hierarchy of controls, including engineering controls and PPE, to nanoparticle exposure scenarios.

Outline

• Course introduction and overview of the engineered nanotechnology industry
• Brief review of toxicity
• Aerosol properties of nanoparticles and larger particles
• Description of methods used to evaluate nanoparticle exposure
• Application of engineering controls
• Effectiveness of respirators and other PPE for protection against nanoparticle exposures
• Conclusions

Transfer of Knowledge

Instructors will evaluate participants understanding of the materials presented based on:

• Practice exercises

Course Survey Link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/16PDC503

Sponsoring Committee

Aerosol Technology, Engineering, Protective Clothing and Equipment, Nanotechnology Working Group

Instructors

• David S. Abrams, ARS Environmental Health, Inc., Minneapolis, MN
• Michael Ellenbecker, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, MA
• Su-Jung (Candace) Tsai, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO
• Thomas M. Peters, University of Iowa, Ames, IA