ISO Nanotech Standard Addresses Inhalation Toxicity Testing

The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) has finalized a new standard that apparently establishes parameters for monitoring the concentration, size and size-distribution of nanoscale particles in an inhalation chamber as part of an effort to assess their potential toxicity. ISO 10808-2010, titled “Nanotechnologies—Characterization of nanoparticles in inhalation exposure chambers for inhalation toxicity testing,” reportedly establishes a battery of tests that will help researchers learn about potential effects of nanoparticles on human health and the environment. ISO Technical Committee ISO/TC 229, Nanotechnologies, developed the standard, and its Chair Peter Hatto was quoted as saying, “Traditional methods used in other areas are considered insufficient for testing nanoparticles since parameters specific to them like particle surface area or number, might be crucial determinants of toxicity.” He called the test an “important asset to the industry.” See Nanowerk, January 26, 2011.