Abstract

In the last decade, available research studies onindustrial and biomedical applications have documented thepotential for significant health effects from exposure to carbonnanotubes (CNTs) and carbon nanofibers (CNFs). This paperreviews existing information on toxicity and potential healthrisks from occupational exposures to CNTs and CNFs.Additionally, the paper discusses the need to consider thePrecautionary Principle as a basis for risk managementpractices for effectively controlling exposures to CNTs andCNFs. It must be noted that in order to effectively evaluateworkers’ exposures and minimize risks for respiratory hazards,a multi-tiered measurement strategy and feasible interventionsor controls must be developed with a view to controllingexposures below NIOSH’s recommended exposure limit of 1.0μg/m3over a working lifetime of 45 years. The application ofclassical industrial hygiene exposure controls (engineering,administrative control/work practices, and personal protectiveequipment) are recommended.