Seit 2005

NanoRisk Check

Nanotechnology is widely regarded as a key technology for the 21st century. Its subject are materials at a scale of less than 100 nm that display novel chemical and physical properties. Besides the opportunities that such new properties can offer for products and processes, there are also, in some cases, potential risks involved. This is mainly due to a lack of knowledge, especially in the areas of mid to long-term effects on human health and the environment.

Point of Departure

  • Unclear risk profile: In many respects nanomaterials cannot be equated with traditional substances and chemicals because they display novel properties.
  • Regulatory and liability risks: Missing or volatile regulatory frameworks provide little predictability and certainty. Moreover, a lack of regulations can lead to unforeseeable liability risks for producers and first marketers of nanomaterials.
  • High uncertainty and dynamics: The risks inherent to nanotechnologies are being scrutinized and the state of the art of scientific and technological knowledge is constantly changing.

What does NanoRisk Check do?

With NanoRisk Check we give you the opportunity to have your position regarding safety, risk management and prevention in the area of nanotechnology checked. Within 2.5 days renowned nanotechnology experts will conduct a first assessment of your company. In this context, the on-site situation will be analysed, evaluated and presented to the management. In best time you will get a good overview of:

  • Possible product and liability risks for the substances produced or manufactured in your company.
  • The suitability of your risk management system for the special requirements of nanotechnology.
  • The state of your measures concerning occupational safety (HSE risks) with special regard to nanotechnologies.
  • Possible solutions to efficiently eliminate shortcomings of the current situation.

Due to the compact design of NanoRisk Check you can have your need for action in this delicate area analysed with justifiable resource commitment. This allows you to tackle potential risks before they can compromise your nanotechnology activities.

Further information and contact

Christoph Meili

The Innovation Society, St. Gall

Phone: +41 (0)71 278 02 06