TORONTO, Ontario – CSA Group, a standards development, testing and certification organization, announced Canada's first adopted ISO standard on nanotechnologies. “CSA Z12885, Nanotechnologies - Exposure control program for engineered nanomaterials in occupational settings” provides guidance for the safe use of nanomaterials in the workplace.

"The development of standards is crucial for effective and responsible commercialization of nanotechnologies," said Brian Haydon, Senior Project Manager, Standards, CSA Group. "CSA Z12885 is the first in a series of standards on nanotechnologies being adopted in Canada, resulting from international and Canadian contributions to the continued activity of ISO/TC 229, the ISO Technical Committee on nanotechnologies."

“CSA Z12885, Nanotechnologies - Exposure control program for engineered nanomaterials in occupational settings” provides guidance to establish and implement a program to control exposure to nanomaterials in the workplace. This follows recognized approaches to risk management with a focus on information and issues specific to nanotechnologies, including hazard identification, risk assessment procedures, training requirements and worker engagement. CSA Z12885 contains revisions to ISO/TR 12885 and additional guidance to reflect Canadian practices and safety considerations.

The standard was announced to industry and research stakeholders at the recent Nano Ontario 2012 Conference in Waterloo, Ontario.