A critical evaluation of material safety data sheets (MSDSs) for engineered nanomaterials

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health and Safety
• Materials Science
• Chemical Hazard Communication

Background:

• Material safety data sheets (MSDSs) are crucial for communicating chemical hazards in the workplace.
• Engineered nanomaterials are increasingly used across various industries, necessitating clear hazard information.
• Existing MSDSs may not adequately address the unique properties and risks of nanomaterials.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the quality and completeness of MSDSs for engineered nanomaterials.
• To assess the evolution of MSDS content for nanomaterials over time.
• To identify deficiencies in hazard communication for engineered nanomaterials.

Main Methods:

• Collected MSDSs from 44 manufacturers via internet searches (2007-2008 and 2010-2011).
• Developed and applied a ranking scheme to assess MSDS content for hazard identification, exposure controls, PPE, and toxicology.
• Focused evaluation on specific physical properties, toxicological effects, and exposure control measures.

Main Results:

• The initial review (2007-2008) indicated varying quality of MSDSs for engineered nanomaterials.
• A follow-up review (2010-2011) revealed that a majority (67%) of MSDSs still provided insufficient data.
• Key deficiencies included lack of specific particle size, physical form, toxicological data, and protective measures.

Conclusions:

• Significant data gaps persist in MSDSs for engineered nanomaterials, hindering effective risk assessment.
• Improvements in MSDS content are needed to adequately communicate the hazards of these advanced materials.
• Further development of standardized guidelines for nanomaterial safety data sheets is recommended.