South African industry and researchers have been players in nanoscience and nanotechnology for a considerable time. Although we have many nanotechnology-based industrial processes and products, new generations of nanotechnology-based products that are rapidly emerging in the world today, require that South Africa develops the ability to derive benefits from global advances in this area.
National Nanotechnology Technology Strategy
The National Nanotechnology Strategy addresses opportunities for nanotechnology in South Africa as it cuts across biotechnology, information technology, and manufacturing technology. The Strategy addresses human capital development, accelerating research excellence in nanotechnology, creating networks and building shared resources, stimulating innovation, incubation and technology transfer, and creating public awareness and acceptance of nanotechnology.
Science Engagement Strategy
The Science Engagement Strategy (SES) was approved by the Minister of Science and Technology in January 2015. The SES formalises and provides strategic direction to the science engagement programme led by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), which dates back to 1998. An SES Implementation Framework providing an overview of projects and initiatives towards the implementation of the SES was drafted and approved by Executive Committee of the DST in March 2015.
This document provides more detail on how the SES will be executed. The level of information provided in the Implementation Plan is adequate to inform the development of individual project implementation strategies, through either the conceptualisation of new project strategies or the alignment of existing projects and activities with the SES.The Implementation Plan will be reviewed every five years and adjusted accordingly.
WHO guidelines on protecting workers
The term nanomaterials refers to materials that have at least one dimension (height, width or
length) that is smaller than 100 nanometres (10−7 metre), which is about the size of a virus particle.
This particular size dimension represents a major characteristic of manufactured nanomaterials
(MNMs). The unique properties of MNMs may result in highly desirable behaviour leading to such
varying applications as better paints, better drugs and faster electronics. However, for the same
reason, MNMs may also present health hazards that differ from those of the substance in bulk
form, and may require different test methods for hazard, exposure and risk assessment from their
bulk material counterparts.