NIOSH Urges Better Worker Protection Provisions In EPA Nanotube Rule

The Environmental Protection Agency's proposed safety requirements for a series of carbon nanotubes are raising the ire of NIOSH officials who say EPA's rule falls short of protecting workers and are urging the agency to adopt more protective measures to prevent exposure until further risk assessment is completed. EPA proposed Dec. 28 significant new use rules (SNURs) governing seven carbon nanotubes. The rules sought to impose workplace safety restrictions namely through the use of respirators, limiting the materials' contact with water and several other provisions that some industry sources