CHAPTER 22 – Overview of International Activities

The purpose of this chapter is to provide perspective on the global drivers for collection, evaluation, and dissemination of human and environmental toxicology information on chemical hazards, to identify which international agencies are currently involved in these activities, and to describe the role of toxicology data and risk assessment within these areas. The use of chemicals is essential to meet the social and economic goals of the world community. The challenge is to develop and promote globally the use of chemicals in a cost-effective manner and with a high degree of safety within the principles of sustainable development and improved quality of life for man. To address these challenges six major programs were developed. These programs deals with risk assessments, harmonization of classification and labeling, information exchange, risk reduction, strengthening management processes, and prevention of illegal international traffic. As the various elements of the six program areas reach maturity and take on a greater international emphasis, the importance of both toxicology and exposure data will increase.