Characterizing applications, exposure risks, and hazard communication for engineered nanomaterials in construction

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health and Safety
• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Engineered nanomaterials (ENMs) are increasingly used in construction products.
• Potential health risks to construction workers from ENMs necessitate risk assessment.
• Understanding ENM applications and exposure is crucial for worker protection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize the application of ENMs in construction products.
• To identify potential worker exposure scenarios in the construction industry.
• To evaluate the quality of safety data sheets (SDSs) for nano-enabled construction products.

Main Methods:

• Data on nano-enabled construction products and their SDSs were collected from a public database.
• Descriptive statistics were used to analyze trades, product types, and ENM categories.
• A subset of SDSs was evaluated using modified NIOSH criteria, and transmission electron microscopy was used for bulk analysis.

Main Results:

• Over 50 ENMs are reported in construction products, with polymers and metal oxides being most common.
• Safety data sheets failed to identify ENM composition for 38.1% of products.
• SDSs were rated as satisfactory for only 18% of products, with 70% needing significant improvement; bulk analysis confirmed discrepancies.

Conclusions:

• Despite progress in understanding ENM risks in construction, SDS quality requires substantial improvement.
• The study provides critical insights into ENM use, exposure risks, and hazard communication for construction workers.
• Enhanced hazard communication is essential to mitigate risks associated with ENMs in construction.