Materials that have at least one dimension (height, width, length) that is smaller than 100 nanometers, have certain characteristics which they don’t possess in larger forms. They are called nanomaterials. The nanomaterials must be reported in the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) as they could pose health risks to humans. A study in 2019 by Lauro Hodson of NIOSH Nanotechnology Research Center evaluated that only 3% of nanomaterial SDS were found to be satisfactory. Whereas 79% of the SDS needed improvement.

To enhance the SDS for products containing nanomaterials the Centre for Construction Research and Training (CPWR) has launched a new e-tool free of cost. This tool can be of good use for manufacturers, distributors and those who import products.

Where are nanomaterials used:

Based on research, CPWR has identified the following

• 800+ nanomaterials are being used in materials used for construction like sealants, coatings, paints, concrete, flooring, lubricants and roofing.

Construction workers are continuously exposed to nanomaterials when the above materials are used, which can pose health risks. Identifying the nanomaterial through enhanced SDS can allow them to take needed precautions.

What will Nano Safety Data Sheet Improvement Tool do?

• Assess the current SDS through a series of questions.
• Generate an enhancement report with recommendations. The report is established based on 16 sections of an SDS required by OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration of the United. States Department of Labor) that follow Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals.
• OSHA SDS requirements consist of Product identifier used on the label and any other common names or synonyms by which the substance is known. Name, address, phone number of the manufacturer, importer, or other responsible party, and emergency phone number.