NIOSH calls for comments on chemical Pocket Guide makeover
Posted January 22, 2018
In a recent Science Blog, the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) asked for feedback on the NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards. The guide, which marks its 40th publication anniversary this year, informs readers on recommended exposure limits, protective clothing, and first aid measures for 677 chemicals that are commonly found in the work environment. Workers, employers, occupational health professionals, and emergency responders use the guide as a reference in emergencies. In addition, employers use the guide to help control workplace exposures to hazardous chemicals.
According to the blog, NIOSH plans to reprint the hard copy of the guide and update all versions of it, including for the web and the app, and add new information to it, such as skin exposure information and additional chemicals.
NIOSH is also evaluating the layout for the print version. The current printed guide is a 424-page pocket-sized book. NIOSH developed two new layouts with two new sizes for the print version and welcomes feedback about these new designs from anyone who uses the book. NIOSH is also looking for information about who uses the guide, including how they use the guide, what industries they work in, and why the print version is important to them. NIOSH will use the comments to redesign the 40th anniversary edition of the Pocket Guide.
The Institute wants to know if guide users agree or disagree with the following statements:
- It’s important to keep the current size and layout of the Pocket Guide (3 x 7 inches).
- An 8 x 10-inch version of the guide would be just as useful as the current version.
- The text size and placement of information in the current version is adequate.
- Adding more color would be helpful for following the information.
- Keeping the placement of information in a consistent format is important.
- Adding new information such as skin notations and additional chemicals would make the guide more valuable.
- The printed version of the guide is not a primary resource, but it is important for some uses.
The blog further presents examples of its current layout and alternate layouts the Institute is considering. NIOSH seeks feedback on the final design and asks users to explain what they like and don’t like about each layout along with features or content NIOSH should consider adding.
Visit the NIOSH Science Blog to read and comment.
J. J. Keller's NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards - September 2010 Edition helps you protect your workers' health, prevent overexposure to chemicals, and respond to emergencies.
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