I'm still working on the lab coat issue!
I'm reviewing the NIOSH doc 2012-147
for Nano S&H (http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/2012-147/pdfs/2012-147.pdf)
and it has 2 specific references to lab coats (1st time I've seen anything
so specfic!):
p.16:
Impervious laboratory coats (noncotton).
(If nondisposable laboratory coats are used, they should remain in the
laboratory/change-out area to prevent nanoparticles from being transported
into common areas).
p.18:
At a minimum, for all laboratory activities,
wear impervious (non-woven) laboratory coats (or coveralls, or a work uniform
that covers the arms); long pants without cuffs: a long-sleeved shirt;
closed-toe shoes made of a low-permeability material, or disposable foot
covers; eye protection; and appropriate chemical-resistant gloves (depending
on the chemical exposure).
My questions:
1. Does this only refer to work with
nanomaterial powder? vs liquid/solvent solution?
2. What material is "non-woven"?
Aren't the polyblends are woven to some degree?
3. If the lab coat is supposed to be
"non-woven", why not the coveralls or work uniform?
4. What S&H benefit does "non-woven"
provide?
5. "Impervious" to what?
6. Can "disposable" lab coats
be taken out of the lab area? How come only "nondisposable" coats
must remain in the lab?
Thanks for your insights!
Kim Gates Auletta
Lab Safety Specialist
EH&S Z=6200
Stony Brook University
NOTE!! New email system on campus! kim.auletta**At_Symbol_Here**stonybrook.edu
631-632-3032
FAX: 631-632-9683
EH&S Web site: http://www.stonybrook.edu/ehs/lab/
Remember to wash your hands!