About
NIOSH has undertaken a reappraisal of how to ensure optimal protection of workers from exposure to asbestos fibers and other elongate mineral particles (EMPs). This State of the Science and Roadmap for Scientific Research (herein referred to as the Roadmap), clarifies NIOSH’s REL, summarizes NIOSH’s understanding of occupational exposure and toxicity issues concerning asbestos fibers and other EMPs, and identifies key issues which need to be resolved to allow NIOSH to update its REL.
Additional information
Suggested citation
NIOSH [2011]. Current Intelligence Bulletin 62: Asbestos fibers and other elongate mineral particles: State of the science and roadmap for research. Cincinnati, OH: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2011-159.
Revision
Originally published in March 2011, the Roadmap was revised in April 2011 to
- Correct an erroneous statement that NIOSH adopted the designation of asbestos as a “Potential Occupational Carcinogen” § in the 1970,
- More clearly indicate that NIOSH has determined that exposure to asbestos fibers causes cancer and asbestosis in humans, and
- Provide an updated discussion of the potency of chrysotile for causing mesothelioma.