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1L (2) - Exposure Modelling (TH13/1) Exposure Assessment in the United Kingdom: Development of a Screening Framework Approach. Fryer, Michael1, Collins, Chris1, Colvile, Roy1, Ferrier, Helen1, Nieuwenhuijsen, Mark1, 1 Imperial College of Science, Technology and Medicine, London, United Kingdom ABSTRACT- Exposure assessment is one of three essential elements of the human risk assessment process, the others being toxicity assessment and dose-response assessment. It involves quantifying the uptake of chemicals into humans from their surroundings. Exposure models offer a flexible, predictive method for quantifying potential chemical uptakes, at a relatively low cost. Industry and government departments in an increasing number of countries routinely use exposure models. In the United Kingdom the Interdepartmental Group on Health Risks from Chemicals is presently seeking to evaluate the state of exposure modelling practice and the potential for developing new approaches for modelling exposures. Recent advances in exposure modelling have seen the introduction of aggregate and cumulative models and the availability of new techniques to evaluate variability and uncertainty. This study reviews the present state of exposure modelling practice in the UK and elsewhere and explores the development of a comprehensive screening framework for chemical exposure assessment in the United Kingdom. This framework considers the source of the substance of interest and its physical and chemical properties in order to identify exposure routes and pathways and population target groups that warrant particular concern. Where appropriate the framework produces rapid exposure assessments, but where necessary it guides the user to more suitable existing models and model components. A total of 15 exposure models, developed in the United Kingdom and elsewhere, are evaluated for these purposes. Models included cover consumer, environmental and occupational exposure pathways. Key words: Exposure models, Exposure assessment, Screening framework |
