Exposure registries: overview and utility for nanomaterial workers
Schulte, Paul A. ; Mundt, Diane J. ; Nasterlack, Michael ; Mulloy, Karen B. ; Mundt, Kenneth A.
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine
2011
53
Suppl. 6
42-47
exposure assessment ; exposure records ; medical surveillance ; precautionary principle ; nanomaterials
Occupational risks
English
Bibliogr.
"OBJECTIVE:
This article provides the background for consideration of exposure registries to address potential disease risks in nanomaterial workers.
METHODS:
The history of exposure registries is reviewed with a focus on their purpose and criteria for establishment.
RESULTS:
A rationale is presented for developing registries of nanomaterial workers, and unresolved obstacles and challenges are identified. These include issues on inclusion criteria, funding, potential for legal risks, access to data, confidentiality of business information, privacy, and workers' expectations.
CONCLUSION:
If society is to gain the benefits from nanotechnology, it must take precautions and demonstrate care for those, such as workers, who may be most at risk of adverse effects. Establishing exposure registries is a part of such a precautionary and caring approach."
Digital
The ETUI is co-funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the ETUI.