Mexico Begins Public Consultation on Draft Nanotechnology Standards

On May 3, 3016, Mexico’s Ministry of Economy published a notice beginning a public consultation on two draft nanotechnology standards.  Proposed standard PROY-NMX-R-80004-5-SCFI-2015 is identical to ISO/TS 80004-5:2011, “Nanotechnologies — Vocabulary — Part 5:  Nano/bio interface.”  ISO/TS 80004-5:2011 lists terms and definitions related to the interface between nanomaterials and biology.  It is intended to facilitate communications between scientists, engineers, technologists, designers, manufacturers, regulators, non-governmental organizations (NGO), consumer organizations, members of the public, and others.  Proposed standard PROY-NMX-R-12901-1-SCFI-2015 is identical to ISO/TS 12901-1:2012, “Nanotechnologies — Occupational risk management applied to engineered nanomaterials — Part 1:  Principles and approaches.”*  ISO/TS 12901-1:2012 provides guidance on occupational health and safety measures relating to engineered nanomaterials, including the use of engineering controls and appropriate personal protective equipment, guidance on dealing with spills and accidental releases, and guidance on appropriate handling of these materials during disposal.  It is intended for use by competent personnel, such as health and safety managers, production managers, environmental managers, industrial/occupational hygienists, and others with responsibility for the safe operation of facilities engaged in production, handling, processing, and disposal of engineered nanomaterials.  Publication of the notice began a 60-day public comment period.

*  The notice cites standard ISO/TS 12901-1:2012 but provides an incorrect title, “Guidance on the labelling of manufactured nano-objects and products containing manufactured nano-objects.  Part 1 — Principles and approaches.”  We have provided the correct title of the standard, which matches the title of the draft Mexican standard.