Ultrafine particles (UFPs) can be released unintentionally during metal additive manufacturing (AM). Experts agree on the urgent need to increase the knowledge of the emerging risk of exposure to nanoparticles, although different points of view have arisen on how to do so. This article presents a case study conducted on a metal AM facility, focused on studying the exposure to incidental metallic UFP. It intends to serve as a pilot study on the application of different methodologies to manage this occupational risk, using qualitative and quantitative approaches that have been used to study exposure to engineered nanoparticles. Quantitative data were collected using a condensation particle counter (CPC), showing the maximum particle number concentration in manual cleaning tasks. Additionally, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray analyzer (EDS) measurements were performed, showing no significant change in the particles’ chemical composition, size, or surface (rugosity) after printing. A qualitative approach was fulfilled using Control Banding Nanotool 2.0, which revealed different risk bands depending on the tasks performed. This article culminates in a critical analysis regarding the application of these two approaches in order to manage the occupational risk of exposure to incidental nanoparticles, raising the potential of combining both.

As the integration of nanomaterials in our lives evolves, these materials become more noticeable and so do the concerns about the associated risks. Handling engineered nanomaterials (ENM) increases these concerns and has been leading to multiple studies about how to assess the risk of exposure to these materials. In the meanwhile, many workers are not conscious that they are exposed to nanomaterials, since some are unintentionally released in workplaces, during industrial activities, for example. The exact approach to be taken to study this exposure risk is far from being fully established and unanimously accepted. Choosing a quantitative approach can lead to more consistent results, but it requires expert’s knowledge and proper equipment. A qualitative methodology may be less expensive and time consuming. Control Banding (CB) is an example of a qualitative approach, frequently used to manage the risk of exposure to engineered nanomaterials. But while numerous authors and organizations are focused on risk management of ENM, is the exposure to incidental nanomaterials being neglected? If not, how is this being managed? The purpose of this work was to review different CB approaches for occupational risk management of nanomaterials and to highlight its application for the specific case of incidental nanoparticles. Using two databases for the literature review and after some data analysis, the results of this work allowed to clarify the tendency to apply CB methodologies to ENM risk management research and also the opportunity of applying such approach to incidental nanomaterials.