Toxicologist offers nano-tech warning

TOXICOLOGIST Dr. Dave Hobson, warned that if the nanotechnology industry fails to develop its own safety standards, international government organisations are likely to do the job for them. And then they may find their businesses restricted, if they're not careful.

"Some toxicologists are concerned about a relative lack of attention toward investigating dangers that some of these compounds could present." said Hobson, Chief Scientific Officer of nanoTox Inc. a Texas-based testing firm.

"The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has just issued its first ruling on handling waste containing silver nanoparticles," said Hobson. "There's been little or no attempt by the industry to regulate nanoparticles on its own."

He reckons the industry should begin investigating and designing against potential hazards before " a catastrophic event occurs."

Hobson said that almost every sector of manufacturing and production is a candidate for the development of nanotechnology applications, including food products, coatings, electronics and pharmaceuticals.

"A company always saves a lot of heartache and expense by learning early that a specific material has potential for causing harm, and taking appropriate measures to eliminate or control hazards before they occur in the marketplace," he said. µ