Category: Engineering Control

Nail Salon Table Evaluation

NIOSH is requesting that developers, manufacturers, and vendors of vented nail tables (VNTs) submit new, unused, downdraft VNTs for a free evaluation. The NIOSH research will include an evaluation of VNT airflow and capture characteristics, noise level, ergonomic features, and filter life. Results of the research and recommendations from NIOSH will be communicated back to the submitter with the hope of providing valuable information for maximizing the efficiency of VNTs. Read More >

Posted on by Administrator26 CommentsTags

NO2 Emission Increases Associated with the Use of Certain Diesel Particulate Filters in Underground Mines

Emissions of and exposure to diesel particulate matter can sometimes be controlled through use of newer diesel engines, better engine maintenance, alternative fuels, or ventilation upgrades. Some mines may need to use diesel particulate filters, however. This has created concern about potential exposure to nitrogen dioxide (NO2) resulting from their use.  Read More >

Posted on by Steven Mischler, PhD, Emanuele Cauda, PhD108 Comments

Diacetyl and Food Flavorings

Commercial flavorings used in the food service industry are often complex mixtures of flavoring chemicals, many of which are volatile, meaning that they evaporate into the air from their liquid or solid form. Diacetyl is a prominent chemical ingredient in butter flavorings and is a component of the vapors coming from these and other flavorings. Inhalation of butter flavoring chemical mixtures, including diacetyl, has been associated with severe obstructive lung disease popularly know as "popcorn lung." Read More >

Posted on by Lauralynn Taylor McKernan, ScD, CIH; Kevin Dunn, MSEE, CIH; Kathleen Kreiss, MD; David N. Weissman, MD 35 Comments

Making the Business Case for Prevention through Design

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) is leading a National Prevention through Design (PtD) initiative to promote the concept of "designing out" or minimizing occupational hazards and risks early in the design process. Read more on the NIOSH Science Blog and provide insight about your successes and challenges in implementing PtD. Read More >

Posted on by Administrator16 Comments