Different techniques which enable the analysis of organic and inorganic materials and the control of different manufacturing processes at the nanoscale are summarized as "nanotech-nologies" and considered to belong to the most challenging and important developments of our century. Although the advantages of nanotechnology are well accepted there are diverging opinions on the risks of nanoscaled powders to human health and the environment. The statements vary from "no risk" to "we need a memorandum for nanotechnology". This situation is discussed. The paper gives a synopsis on the state-of-the-art in the fields of the evaluation of health risks which may occur in manufacturing, processing and use of nanoscaled powders or products which are made from them. The biological background is briefly outlined. The report is based on our own investigations into the health risks of nanoscale hardmetals and a survey of the literature.
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