A systematic scientific process used to estimate the likelihood and potential magnitude of harm resulting from exposure to a hazard.
A risk assessment generally considers the nature of the hazard, how people may be exposed, how much exposure occurs, the relationship between dose and effects, and the characteristics of the exposed population.
It is therefore much more informative than simply asking whether a chemical has been detected.
QUICK FACT
“A chemical was detected” is not the same as “the chemical presents a significant health risk.”
COMMONLY CONFUSED WITH
- Risk management: decisions and actions taken to control or reduce risk.
- Hazard identification: determining whether a potential hazard exists.
SEE ALSO
