Environmental (hazardous chemical) risk assessment-era in the European Union
Musenze, R.S.; Vandegehuchte, M. (2006). Environmental (hazardous chemical) risk assessment-era in the European Union, in: Mwakali, J.A. et al. Proceedings from the International Conference on Advances in Engineering and Technology. pp. 696-709. https://dx.doi.org/10.1016/b978-008045312-5/50074-1 In: Mwakali, J.A.; Taban-Wani, G. (Ed.) (2006). Proceedings from the International Conference on Advances in Engineering and Technology. Elsevier: Oxford. ISBN 978-0-08-045312-5. xviii, 847 pp., more |
| Author keywords | Environmental risk assessment; environmental compartment; exposure assessment; hazardous chemicals; sustainable development; hazard identification; risk characterisation |
| Authors | | Top | - Musenze, R.S.
- Vandegehuchte, M., more
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| Abstract | The use of chemical substances causes complex environmental problems characterised by scientific uncertainty and controversies. Comprehensive risk assessments are now required by law but still they are is subject to debate, not least concerning how to interpret uncertainties.When a chemical is discharged into the environment, it is transported and may undergo transformation. Knowledge of the environmental compartments in which the chemical substance will be present and of the form in which it will exist is paramount in the assessment of the possible impacts of the chemical on the environment.In the European Union (EU) risk assessment is often carried out and interpreted in accordance with the principles of sustainable development as chemical substances can cause adverse effects in both short and long term exposure scenarios. According to the technical guidelines, ERA is completed in four steps: hazard identification, exposure assessment, effects assessment, and risk characterisation. Attention is drawn towards the negative effects that chemicals may cause to the environment. The procedure shall be precisely discussed with emphasis on exposure and effects assessment. |
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