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May 18, 2007

UK Publishes First Bulletin on Nanotechnology Research

Lynn L. Bergeson

On May 11, 2007, the United Kingdom (UK) Health & Safety Executive (HSE) published its first bulletin on nanotechnology research. The bulletin is intended to provide an overview of published studies that have examined the exposure and potential health effects of nanomaterials, particularly in the occupational setting. According to HSE, inevitably there will be some overlap between studies of exposure of other groups (i.e. consumers).  HSE screened the literature search results to ensure that the studies listed are relevant to HSE and its responsibility to manage health and safety in the workplace. The first bulletin reviews literature published in 2000-2006. According to HSE, subsequent bulletins will summarize publications from the previous four-month period. The bulletins will summarize the range of studies that have been published in two areas of interest: measurement, characterization, and control of exposure to nanoparticles; and potential for toxic effects of nanoparticles in humans.