Course Description
Nanotechnology is a broad name given to a wide range of technologies and materials that create, manipulate, or use particles of an extremely small size - roughly between 1 and 100 nanometres (nm). A nanometre is 1 billionth of a metre.
These nanomaterials can be both naturally occurring and man-made, and workers can be exposed during manufacturing (handling powders, performing maintenance, machining, sanding) and by use of many consumer products (such as computer screen coatings, sunscreen, and cosmetics).
This awareness course discusses nanomaterials that may be found in Canadian workplaces, the potential health hazards they present, and how workers can be protected.
Topics include:
- Defining nanotechnology
- Nanomaterials and how they are made
- Are nanomaterials a health hazard?
- Areas and activities where exposure can occur
- Controlling/eliminating worker exposure to nanomaterials
- The role of the health and safety committee
Upon completion of the course you will be able to:
- Describe nanotechnology
- Identify sources and products containing nanomaterials in your workplace
- List ways to control and prevent exposure and potential health effects
- Understand the importance of housekeeping, maintenance, and disposal of materials.
Target Audience
- Managers and supervisors
- Health and safety committee members
- Health and safety advisors
Prerequisite
None
