11/10/2008
In a statement released in early October, the French Agency for Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety (AFSSET) recommended the application by the authorities of the "precautionary principle".

Nanomaterials are made up of nanoparticles under 100 nanometres in size. Nanomaterials are rapidly expanding in different industrial sectors such as pharmaceutical, microchips and the chemical industry.  According to the AFSSET, more than 10,000 French workers are exposed to nanomaterials in various sectors of the industry and in research laboratories.

The AFSSET believes the precautionary principle should be applied at different stages such as manufacturing, handling and transportation of nanomaterials.   If the risk cannot be eradicated, producers should ensure that nanomaterials are manufactured and used in a closed circuit.  If it is not possible, employers should adopt collective and personal protective measures and inform their workers of the possible risks if they are exposed to these tinny particles.