Chemical risk assessment and international cooperation.

The scope and the main activities as regards the assessment of the risk from chemical exposure are described. During the United Nations Conference of Environment and Development (UNCED) member states recommended that attempts be made to develop a "common framework to risk assessment" and to improve risk assessment methodology. Within agenda 21, chapter 19, the International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS) was given the responsibility to undertake this work while taking full account of ongoing activities within other international and multinational or non-governmental groups to complete the task in a timely and cost-effective manner.