Scientific Association of the European Talc Industry aisbl

Talc is used in the manufacture of a wide range of goods. Known to the general public as a body powder, talc is an important ingredient in a whole variety of products we come into contact with in our daily lives including paper, paints, plastics, rubber, pharmaceuticals—even chewing gum.  Exposure levels to talc sustained by consumers using talc body powders or products containing talc are extremely low compared to workers exposed to talc dust during the mining or processing of talc ore.
In an industrial context, talc powders may generate dust if inappropriately handled or processed. As with all dusts, the quantity and duration of inhalation determine the level of risk. Human lungs have a natural clearance mechanism for inhaled particles. However this can be overwhelmed by excessive exposure and particles then accumulate in the lung, a phenomenon known as pneumoconiosis. Tobacco smoking significantly reduces the lungs’ clearance capacity. Extensive research has shown that talc has an "inert" dust effect, not a toxic effect.
Occupational exposure limits are legally established throughout the European Union, North America, Australia and in many other countries. Worker exposure should comply with these limits in order to avoid any adverse effects. The preferred method for controlling occupational dust exposure is to minimise dust generation and release rather than rely on the wearing of dust masks.
The members of EUROTALC make safety information available to their customers. They are also keen to let them benefit from their wide experience in dust control and occupational health management. 

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