From coal to carbon nanotubes – IOM's 40th anniversary

The IOM was founded in 1969 as an independent charity to undertake research on the health of coal workers. During the last 40 years we have applied our skills to help solve an increasingly diverse range of problems, both through our research work and our services for individual clients. We are increasingly focussed on the potential risks from new ways of working and new technologies, including the development of novel materials such as carbon nanotubes.

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New services for the offshore oil and gas industry

IOM scientists are now actively involved in supporting the offshore oil and gas industry. Our experienced staff can provide assistance on everything from the risks of musculoskeletal disorders amongst offshore workers to the management of asbestos on offshore installations.

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IOM calls for greater co-ordination of global research on the safety of nanotechnology

The first review of international research into the environment, health and safety risks of nanotechnology has been published by IOM. The report highlights key progress made to date within nanotechnology risk research and identifies major gaps in our knowledge. We conclude that a more strategic co-ordinated global research agenda must be developed.

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Chemicals and skin disease

IOM scientists are organising a major international conference on Occupational and Environmental Exposure of Skin to Chemicals in Edinburgh from the 14th to the 17th June. The meeting is unique in bringing together experts in dermal exposure assessment, dermatology, and skin toxicology with policy-makers and health, safety and environment professionals interested in increasing their knowledge of dermal exposure issues.

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Asbestos identified as causing several types of cancer

The International Agency for Research on Cancer recently reaffirmed asbestos as a known human carcinogen that can cause mesothelioma, lung cancer, laryngeal cancer and, perhaps surprisingly, ovarian cancer.

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Research on inhaled particles published

The proceedings of the tenth Inhaled Particles Symposium have been published on the internet. There are six scientific papers co-authored by IOM staff, including an updated analysis of the mortality of British coal workers and details of a new approach to estimate workplace exposure to pharmaceutical aerosols. The symposium papers are all free to download.

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DSE assessor training

Do you need Display Screen Equipment (DSE) Assessor Training for your organisation? We have a one-day course scheduled in the 9th June in Edinburgh that will provide participants with all the necessary training to competently assess DSE (VDU) workstations.

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