Occupational Exposure to Carbon Nanotubes and Nanofibers

that require additional primary prevention efforts. This analysis should be performedby a qualified health professional or other knowledgeable person to identify workerhealth patterns that may be linked to work activities or exposures. Confidentiality ofworkers’ medical records should be enforced in accordance with all applicable regulationsand guidelines.••Employers should periodically evaluate the elements of the medical screening programto ensure that the program is consistent with current knowledge related to exposuresand health effects associated with occupational exposure to CNT and CNF.Other important components related to occupational health surveillance programs, includingmedical surveillance and screening, are discussed in Appendix B.2. Recommendations for Workers••Ask your supervisor for training in how to protect yourself from the potential hazardsassociated with your job, including exposure to CNT and CNF.••Know and use the exposure control devices and work practices that keep CNT andCNF out of the air and off your skin.••Understand when and how to wear a respirator and other personal protectiveequipment (such as gloves, clothing, eyewear) that your employer might provide.••Avoid handling CNT and CNF in a ‘free particle’ state (e.g., powder form).••Store CNT and CNF, whether suspended in liquids or in a powder form, in closed(tightly sealed) containers whenever possible.••Clean work areas at the end of each work shift (at a minimum) using a HEPA-filteredvacuum cleaner or wet wiping methods. Dry sweeping or air hoses should not be usedto clean work areas.••Do not store or consume food or beverages in workplaces where bulk CNT or CNF,or where CNT- or CNF-containing materials, are handled.• • Prevent the inadvertent contamination of nonwork areas (including take-home contamination)by showering and changing into clean clothes at the end of each workday.xviNIOSH CIB 65 • Carbon Nanotubes and Nanofibers