A TIERED APPROACH FOR AGGREGATE EXPOSURE ASSESSMENT

Background and Aims: The study describes the tiered aggregate exposure assessment methodology followed in the TAGS project, as a response to CEFIC-LRI call regarding the issue of realistic estimation of exposure to substances from multiple sources. Methods: The overall developed methodology focuses on the development of guidance and criteria to inform when an aggregate assessment is triggered, the identification of data types/data gaps and quality required, exposure determinants and modifiers identification, development of strategies so that a verification of the models is possible and the completion of a range of case studies. The approach initially lies on a deliberate and extensive review of existing data, models and methodologies, aiming to compile a new overall methodology, adding the necessary elements for an as much realistic exposure assessment. The tructured methodology is built upon a computational platform that links existing (e.g. EUSES, SHEDS) and additional in house developed aggregate expos...