Introduction:

The exposure to metal nanoparticles has significantly increased in recent years due to its greater use in various industrial sectors. Despite the growing number of industries and workers exposed, there are few studies that evaluate the significant impact on the health and safety of workers.

Objective:

To review the scientific evidence to determine the possible toxic effects of metallic nanoparticles on the health of exposed workers.

Methodology:

Systematic review of the scientific literature through search in MEDLINE (PUBMED), WOS, SCIELO, IBECS and LILACS databases until 10 December, 2017.

Results:

The 6 scientific articles included met the selection criteria. The main nanoparticles identified were iron, chromium, manganese, nickel, aluminium, zinc, copper and silver. The studies observed health damages like an increase in proinflammatory substances, increase in macrophage aggregation, proliferation of fibroblasts, production of reactive oxygen species, damage to mitochondria and DNA, and cardiovascular, pulmonary and renal damage data.

Conclusions:

There are not many scientific studies related to the health effects associated with occupational exposure to metallic nanoparticles. Since current works evidence an association between exposure to metal nanoparticles and the presence of cardiovascular, renal and pulmonary toxicity, further investigation on the subject is necessary to be enhanced.