207c - Advancement of exposure science and its application in occupational hygiene

Abstract In the risk assessment of chemicals, estimation exposure is known to be a critical element of the overall outcome. Exposure assessments may offer quantified data but measurement data are often scarce cover a wide dynamic range, depending on the real life conditions or assumed scenario. In consumer safety, exposures are generally low and have a small impact if well controlled. Only the high numbers exposed at population level may raise concern. In contrast, occupational exposures are more likely higher and more likely to be non-compliant. With a focus on the health impact of industrial chemicals the exposure characterisation is more critical. Exposure scenarios drive risk assessment outcomes, and real life exposure data are needed to perform useful risk assessments. Methods for exposure assessment can be further improved and will probably include applications of biomonitoring or use novel sensor-technology for collection of time-resolved personalised exposure data. Modelling can be part of the solution in the problem analysis part. Biomonitoring feed in the initial assessment of exposure and also contribute to finding effective exposure mitigation strategies such as personal protection? The focus of this contribution will be to discuss opportunities for further improvement of exposure assessment based on the tools that we have access to now in the near future.