Hazard characterisation
Hazard characterisation is the qualitative and, wherever possible, quantitative description of the inherent properties of a chemical that have the potential to cause adverse effects. This should, where possible, include a dose response assessment and its uncertainties. With high resources the steps proposed for implementation of this sub-element are as follows:
- Carry out your own characterisation of the hazards of the selected chemicals, taking into account existing assessments from other countries.
- Use the hazard characterisation in risk assessment (see Risk characterisation).
Relevant tools
Below is a list of tools relevant for implementing this topic :
- IPCS Training Module No 1: Chemical Safety: Fundamentals of Applied Toxicology - The Nature of Chemical Hazards, Second (Revised) Edition, IPCS/WHO, 1997
- OECD Manual for the Assessment of Chemicals
- OECD Series on Testing and Assessment
- OECD: eChemPortal
- Case study of Canada’s Chemicals Management Plan