International Register of Potentially Toxic Chemicals data bank: an information system for managing chemicals.

Policy issues related to data and information are dealt with. The International Register of Potentially Toxic Chemicals (IRPTC) data bank activities with data collection, processing, use and data dissemination is illustrated. The IRPTC's mandate from agenda 21, chapter 19, programme area C: "Information exchange on toxic chemicals and chemical risks" in three areas is discussed: a) development of international institutions and networks responsible for information exchange on toxic chemicals; b) improvement of database and information systems on toxic chemicals through the provision of training in the use of those systems as well as software, hardware, and other facilities and c) assistance to developing countries in the creation of national chemical information centers.