The emerging area of nanotechnology has brought with it concerns over worker safety. NIOSH has now released a progress report concerning this technology. NIOSH's goals are:
1. Determine whether nanoparticles and nanomaterials pose risks of work-related injuries and illnesses.
2. Conduct research to prevent work-related injuries and illnesses by ap- plying nanotechnology products.
3. Promote healthy workplaces through interventions, recommendations, and capacity building.
4. Enhance global workplace safety and health through national and international collaborations on nanotechnology research and guidance.
"To date, NIOSH/OEP has committed about $5.3 million dollars to research on applications and implications of nanotechnology. Summaries of the projects funded by NIOSH/OEP are included in Appendix B. NIOSH/OEP plans to continue collaborative efforts with EPA/NCER, NSF, NIH/NIEHS, and other international agencies to support nanotechnology research with occupational safety and health implications. OEP will continue to confer with the NIOSH Nanotechnology Research Center regarding issues, gaps, and future directions.
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