r2p: Research To Practice at NIOSH

Handwipe Method for Detecting Lead
Scientific Contact: Eric Esswein, (303-236-5946)
Licensing Contact: Kathleen Goedel, (513-533-8686)
Through a simple color change, a NIOSH-developed hand wipe technology quickly and easily detects the presence of lead (Pb) contamination on skin and hard surfaces in industries where lead is produced or used to a limit of identification of 15 micrograms per sample. The method was designed following a NIOSH Health Hazard Evaluation in a Pb acid battery plant that revealed high concentrations of Pb on worker’s hands after washing and also on a variety of surfaces throughout the plant cafeteria. The Handwipe Disclosing Method for the Presence of Lead is patented (US Patent 6,248,593 ) and commercially available under the brand name Full Disclosure®. While the method provides instant field results, the samples can also be analyzed using numerous NIOSH laboratory analytical methods. Recognition of lead exposure risks is a critical first step in preventing workplace exposures as well as limiting take-home toxics that can result in ingesting of lead during eating, drinking, or smoking. Through this novel technology, lead exposure can be reduced for more than 10,000 workers and 900,000 children in the United States. Full Disclosure® was licensed in 2003 and is commercially available from SKC, Inc.  . Mention of a company name does not imply commercial endorsement by NIOSH. NIOSH is looking for additional partners to commercialize this device.

Handwipe Method for Detecting Methamphetamine (Meth)
Scientific Contact: Eric Esswein, (303-236-5946)
Licensing Contact: Kathleen Goedel, (513-533-8686)
The Handwipe Method for Detecting Meth is an innovation that followed the NIOSH-invented Hand Wipe Method for Detecting Lead (see related licensing opportunity on this page). NIOSH field investigations conducted with city law enforcement agencies and a global research center revealed the critical need for real-time meth surface detection methods. This method would enable first responders to accurately sample and determine meth concentrations so appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) would be used in remediation of the crime or incident site. After development and testing of the method, SKC, Inc. approached NIOSH about the possibility of developing the technology and expressed interest in taking the idea to market. After working with SKC, Inc. on developing the Pb detection method under the brand name Full Disclosure ®, NIOSH trusted SKC’s intentions and believed the company was highly motivated to take the technology to market. SKC, Inc. enthusiastically pursued licensing the invention. In 2006, SKC released two products at the American Industrial Hygiene Conference and Exposition. The two NIOSH-invented technologies were commercialized and are now sold under the brand names MethAlert™ (a colorimetric method) and MethChek™ (immunochemical method). Mention of a company name does not imply commercial endorsement by NIOSH. NIOSH is looking for additional partners to commercialize this device.