RISK MANAGEMENT IN THE ABSENCE OF CREDIBLE RISK ASSESSMENT

Rational management of risk is inextricably linked to the ability to measure and assess the potential risk. For acute and some subchronic manifestations of toxicity produced by pesticides, this is achievable. For chronic toxicity, particularly carcinogenesis, the ability to measure a response in animal studies exists. However, the ability to assess risk from use of these data alone is a fiction. Rather, management of such risks must be based on insight and judgement. Banning all materials shown as carcinogenic in exaggerated tests or using best feasible technology to minimize exposure to the lowest possible levels are not logical alternatives.