Overview
ISO/ASTM 52931:2023 - Additive manufacturing of metals - Environment, health and safety - General principles for use of metallic materials provides guidance and requirements for assessing and managing environment, health and safety (EHS) risks when using metallic powders in additive manufacturing (AM). The standard addresses risk across all sub-processes of metal AM - from handling and storage of powders through process steps to waste management - but does not specify machinery or equipment design requirements.
Key topics and technical requirements
ISO/ASTM 52931:2023 focuses on practical EHS controls and a structured risk‑assessment methodology. Major topics include:
- Methodology for risk assessment, including a chemical hazard methodology and procedures to identify hazards and exposure scenarios.
- Source data requirements such as Safety Data Sheets (SDS), product technical datasheets and process information to support assessment.
- Hazard identification covering inputs (metal powders, additives), substances generated during AM, and fire/explosion hazards associated with combustible metal dusts.
- Exposure characterization and risk rating for inhalation, skin contact and explosion risks, with guidance on using occupational exposure limits (OELs).
- Prevention and protective measures addressing workplace design (floors, airflow, fire and electrical safety), powder storage, process controls, organizational measures, training, PPE and limiting personnel exposure.
- Waste management requirements for contaminated filters, vacuum/cleaning wastes and dry powder residues.
- Informative annexes on SDS content, limit values, fire/explosion overview and OEL references.
Practical applications - who should use this standard
ISO/ASTM 52931:2023 is intended for organizations that operate, manage, supply or regulate metal additive manufacturing processes. Typical users include:
- EHS managers and occupational health professionals in AM facilities
- Production and process engineers working with metal powders (PBF, DED, binder‑jetting, etc.)
- Powder suppliers and material safety specialists preparing SDS and technical datasheets
- Facility designers and workplace safety auditors (for layout, ventilation and fire controls)
- Waste management teams handling contaminated AM residues
- Regulators and certification bodies assessing AM risk controls
Using this standard helps reduce operator exposure to hazardous powders, manage combustible dust risks, and implement consistent workplace and waste controls across metal AM operations.
Related standards and references
Relevant standards referenced by ISO/ASTM 52931:2023 include:
- ISO/ASTM 52900 (AM fundamentals and vocabulary)
- ISO/ASTM 52907:2019 (methods to characterize metal powders)
- Industry and safety standards such as IEC 60079‑10‑1/2 (explosive atmospheres), ISO 11611 (protective clothing for welding), and ANSI Z87.1 (eye and face protection)
Keywords: ISO/ASTM 52931:2023, additive manufacturing safety, metallic powders, EHS risk assessment, powder bed fusion, occupational exposure limits, AM waste management, PPE, fire and explosion.