"The properties of manufactured nanomaterials (materials made of nanoparticles smaller than 100nm produced intentionally by humans) are paving the way for a wide variety of promising technological developments. However, due to the many uncertainties in the case of nanomaterials, ‘conventional' assessment of the associated hazards and exposure based on quantitative, measurable criteria is difficult. These uncertainties will only be removed as scientific understanding of the properties of nanomaterials advances.
Control Banding is an instrument combining risk assessment and management which was originally developed in the pharmaceutical industry to help ensuring the safety of workers engaged in processes using products for which little information on toxicity was available. This instrument is specifically proposed for guiding risk management in a context of uncertainty regarding the input data needed for risk assessment. It takes into account existing information and the available technical and scientific data, and relies on a number of assumptions.
The Control Banding method proposed by the ANSES experts can potentially be used in any work environment in which nanomaterials are manufactured or used (industrial workshops, research laboratories, pilot plants, etc.). In particular, the proposed tool is especially adapted to SMEs and SMIs which do not necessarily have at their disposal the metrological characterisation equipment or detailed toxicological studies required for a proper risk assessment process. "

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