Engineered Nanomaterials

Nanomaterials are engineered substances with at least one dimension between about 1 and 100 nanometers, thousands of times thinner than a human hair. They are added to paints, coatings, concrete, insulation, batteries and composites for strength or special properties. Their health effects are still being studied.

• Manufacturing
• Coatings
• Research

Where workers meet them

• Coatings and paints with titanium dioxide, silica or silver nanoparticles
• Concrete and cement additives, sealers and self-cleaning surfaces
• Carbon nanotube or graphene composites in sporting goods, batteries and structural materials
• Powders handled in laboratories and manufacturing
• Cutting, sanding or grinding finished products that contain nanomaterials can release particles.

What is known

• The risk depends on the material, its shape, size and surface, how much is in the air and how long you are exposed.
• Fine particles can be inhaled deep into the lungs. Some nanomaterials, such as certain carbon nanotubes, have caused lung inflammation and scarring in animal studies.
• Skin contact and swallowing are less studied but possible routes.
• There are few specific legal exposure limits. NIOSH has proposed recommended limits for some, such as carbon nanotubes and titanium dioxide. See Exposure Limits.

Controls (take a precautionary approach)

• Read the Safety Data Sheet and product information. Ask suppliers whether a product contains nanomaterials. See Safety Data Sheets.
• Substitute less hazardous forms where possible, for example liquids or pastes instead of dry powder.
• Use enclosures and local exhaust ventilation with HEPA filtration when handling powders. See Ventilation.
• Use wet methods and vacuums with HEPA filters for cleanup. Do not dry sweep or use compressed air.
• Wear protective gloves, clothing and, when controls are not enough, a suitable respirator such as an N95 or better, or a half-face with P100 filters. See Respiratory Protection.
• Wash hands and change clothes before leaving; do not eat in work areas.
• Consider air monitoring. See Air Sampling & Exposure Monitoring.

Last updated: October 8, 2026