Much research is being conducted recently using nanoparticle formulations of chemotherapeutics as well as pain relief meds.  NIOSH and the Navy Public Health center have described the use of N 100’s as respiratory protection when working  with nanoparticles, and formulations.

My question is-

When evaluating animal research protocols involving formulations on the nanoscale such as chemotherapeutics, is anyone requiring N 100’s when the task isinjecting the medication, as opposed to actually formulating it?  One argument I hear from researchers is that their primary concern is autoinjection, which is why they have no problem with wearing gloves, but they would rather not  wear a respirator. 

Anyone involved in such risk assessment?

-Stefan Wawzyniecki, CIH, CHMM

University of Connecticut