Research Project Summary

Year Funded: 2010 Budget: $50,000 Funding Agency: WorkSafeBC
Title: Detecting, Handling and Controlling Nanoparticle Contamination
Category: Occupational Disease, Injury and Health Services
Subcategory: Occupational Disease
Keywords: nanoparticles, contamination, clean-up protocol, limits of detection, X-ray fluorescence
Link to research website:

Issue:

Although nanoparticles are becoming widespread in their acceptance and use in the workplace, there are unresolved concerns regarding their potential health impacts. They are too small to see with the eye and can enter the body by multiple pathways. Research shows that these particles can be difficult to clear from the body and can lead to organ failure, cancerous growths, and death. This project aims to minimize occupational exposure to these nanoparticles

Objectives:

This research aims to develop methods for the early identification of spills containing nanoparticles to avoid creating long-term hazards in the workplace. The purpose is to promote safe work practices around materials that would otherwise go unnoticed in the workplace.

Anticipated Results:

It is anticipated that the research will result in the ability to both detect spills containing nanoparticles and decontaminate these spills on a variety of surfaces.

Investigators:

Byron Gates (Simon Fraser University)