Evaluation of approaches for terrestrial hazard classification

Renaud, F. G. , Boxall, A. B.A., Toy, R. and Robertson, S. (2004) Evaluation of approaches for terrestrial hazard classification. Chemosphere, 57(11), pp. 1697-1706. (doi: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2004.08.079) (PMID:15519416)

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Abstract

Hazard assessment is an essential element in the evaluation of the potential effects of chemical substances on the environment. To date, most work has focused on hazard assessment schemes for the aquatic environment, but in recent years, a number of proposals have been developed for other environmental compartments. Due to limited datasets, the suitability of the toxicity cut-off values in these schemes has not been fully determined and the practicalities associated with using these approaches have not been fully established. This study, which focused on the soil compartment, was performed to examine cut-off values proposed by two terrestrial hazard assessment schemes and establish the availability of data. Data on earthworms indicated that current proposals for toxicity cut-off values are appropriate. However, analysis of IUCLID (International Uniform ChemicaL Information Database) indicates that even for commonly used high production volume chemicals, insufficient data are available to enable classification. Whilst the necessary data may already be available for selected groups of substances (e.g. pesticides and veterinary medicines), a significant experimental testing programme would therefore be required before a terrestrial classification system could be applied widely. Such data may become available in the future as a result of initiatives such as REACH.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Renaud, Professor Fabrice
Authors: Renaud, F. G., Boxall, A. B.A., Toy, R., and Robertson, S.
College/School:College of Social Sciences > School of Social & Environmental Sustainability
Journal Name:Chemosphere
Publisher:Elsevier
ISSN:0045-6535
ISSN (Online):1879-1298
Published Online:22 October 2004

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