Towards harmonised test methods for nanomaterials

The OECD has published and disseminated test guidelines (TGs) and guidance documents with the aim of ensuring public health and environmental safety. EU regulations, such as REACH, base their safety assessment of chemicals on the these TGs. Engineered nanomaterials (ENMs) can behave differently, physically and chemically, than bulk materials and hence sometimes present difficulties in analysis and data evaluation. While adopted TGs are not always suitable for nanoforms, they are required to ensure that standards for estimating and endorsing ENMs are met. The EU-funded NanoHarmony project will develop scientifically reliable test methods and good practice documents based on the interpretation of existing scientific knowledge and data. It will also coordinate the collection and use of data, organise a sustainable network and set up a scheme for coherent cooperation between stakeholders.