Nanomaterials are materials having one or more external dimensions, or an internal structure of 100 nm or less, which could exhibit novel characteristics compared to the same material without nanoscale features. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) is the lead federal agency for research on safety and health implications of nanomaterials.

Although the risks of nanomaterials to human health and the environment are largely unknown, it is prudent to stay aware of safety recommendations for handling nanomaterials. The purpose of this document is to provide health and safety guidance to faculty, staff, students, and visitors working with nanomaterial at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.