Updated Workplace Carcinogen Policy Emphasizes Elimination

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health is moving toward a more protective approach in evaluating carcinogens under a new policy for cancer-causing chemicals published Dec. 27.

The carcinogen policy, in the works since 2010, changes how NIOSH classifies carcinogens and sets recommended exposure limits for chemicals in the workplace.

“Underlying this policy is the recognition that there is no known safe level of exposure to a carcinogen, and therefore that reduction of worker exposure to chemical carcinogens as much as possible through elimination or substitution of engineering controls is the primary way to prevent occupational cancer,” NIOSH Director ...