Risk

The assessment of risks related to the use of novel chemicals or new materials such as nanoparticles is a complex, regulated process. Toxicology basically defines a potential risk through the parameters “exposure” and “hazard”. The health risk is a function of these two parameters, i.e. it depends on the existence of both. There is basically no risk if there is only one parameter.

Risk_Tox = f{exposure; hazard}

But for the society or an individual person, the risk is basically a function of Probability P that a certain event occurs, and the damage level D.

Risk_soc = P * D

The manufacture of various different nanomaterials in the future is expected to lead to an increased exposure of man and the environment. In addition, first studies that have been conducted both in vitro and in vivo indicate that nanoparticles, indeed, can trigger biological effects. Some of the representatives of these smallest materials are therefore assumed to have an impact on health. Now that the preconditions of potential risks have been identified, exposure needs to be investigated to be able to assess such risks. In case exposure can be proven, measures must be taken to eliminate or minimize the risks (risk management).

Literature

Brune, H., Ernst, H., Grunwald, A., Grünwald, W., Hofmann, H., Janich, P., Krug, H.F., Mayor, M., Schmid, G., Simon, U., and Vogel, V. (2006) Nanotechnology - Assessment and Perspectives. Springer, Berlin.

updated on 03.12.2009