This ongoing project helps in the development of technical data needed in the formation of codes, regulations and rules affecting U.S. cotton industry operations and products.

Some of the key areas where data collection proved useful in averting overly burdensome regulations were: particulate matter (PM) and ozone emissions; hexane toxicity and dioxin levels; cottonseed oil spills and bedding flammability. Test data were obtained that are important to flammability standards being developed for bedclothes and upholstered furniture. Burn incidence data from Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) in-depth studies are continually updated and have been used to help retain the amendments (beneficial to cotton) to the Children's Sleepwear Flammability Standard and prevent other unnecessary new standards for general apparel.

Current year objectives will focus on: 1) developing and evaluating research information on PM, ozone and other air emissions from cotton operations; 2) developing improved flammability treatments and economic data for cotton products and flammability information/education programs; 3) evaluating workplace health and safety risks related to cotton; 4) evaluating (when necessary) toxicity of chemicals used on cotton textiles, potential residues on cotton, and chemicals used in other cotton processes; and 5) updating the ITT burn database with new CPSC in-depth studies.