Nanotechnology and environment: Safety and health in exposure to nanoparticles and ceramics

Given the absence of scientific clarity about the potential health effects of occupational exposure to nanoparticles, guidance is required for decision-making regarding their risks, hazards and controls. Identify the ethical issues that this implies can be useful for decision makers, including employers, employees, investors and the health authorities. The aim of occupational health and safety is the prevention of disease in workers and identified situations that have ethical implications that affect workers. These situations include a) identification and communication of hazards and risks by scientists, authorities and employers, b) risk taking by employees, c) the selection and implementation of controls; d) the establishment program of medical examinations, e) investment in toxicological research and control. These issues involve ethical impartial determination of hazards and risks, nonmaleficence (do no harm), autonomy, justice, privacy and promoting respect for people. As you identify and explore ethical issues, it is possible to develop options for decision makers. Also, you may contribute to social discussions about risks of nanotechnologies in the workplace with special emphasis on small businesses and the adoption of a global perspective.