GENEVA-The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) has published ISO/TR 12885: 2008 –Health and safety practices in occupational settings relevant to nanotechnologies, which focuses on the manufacture and use of engineered nanomaterials. The technical report is based on current information about nanotechnologies, including characterization, health effects, exposure assessments and control practices.

Broadly applicable across a range of nanomaterials and applications, the report provides advice for companies, researchers, workers and others to prevent adverse health and safety consequences during the production, handling, use and disposal of manufactured nanomaterials.

"The introduction of new engineered nanomaterials into the workplace raises questions concerning occupational safety and health that should be addressed, as appropriate, by international standards,” says Dr. Peter Hatto, chair of ISO technical committee ISO/TC 229, Nanotechnologies. “While such standards are being developed, it is important, through ISO/TR 12885: 2008, to assemble and make available to users, useful knowledge on occupational safety and health practices in the context of nanotechnologies."

The report will be revised and updated and new safety standards will be developed as knowledge increases and experience is gained in the course of technological advance.

ISO/TR 12885: 2008–Health and safety practices in occupational settings relevant to nanotechnologies, was developed by ISO/TC 229, Nanotechnologies.

The report is available fromISO national member institutes. It also may be obtained directly from ISO Central Secretariat through theISO Storeor by contacting theMarketing & Communication department.