Dry Powder Machining Controls

Dispensing of dry powder in machining operations with vigorous mechanical motion or agitation

Potential Risk
Dispensing the dry powder in a machining operation with vigorous motion, could result in aerosolization of the nanoparticles that could remain suspended in air after the operation is completed. 

Controls

• Ventilated machining equipment (mechanical process, or agitation).
  • The ventilation exhaust must be processed with HEPA* exhaust filtratration
  • When exhaust ventilation is not feasible, PPE shall be utilized to prevent potential inhalation, dermal, and eye exposure to nanoparticles.
• Latex or nitrile clean room gloves
• Wet cleaning methods when cleaning equipment
• Note: Additional PPE and or EHS controls may be required based on the dry powder nanomaterial properties 

Alternatively, Control Banding  may be employed when more is known about material reactivity, exposure duration and material state.

Specific Operations 

Material Specific Controls

• Carbon Nanotubes