Assessment of Reproductive Risk at Work

Abstract

The risk-assessment process involves hazard identification, dose-response assessment, exposure assessment, and characterization of risk. Special competence and careful consideration are needed to assess effects on human reproduction. There is often a lack of scientific information concerning, e.g., toxic influences of chemical substances on human fertility, pregnancy, and offspring. Legislation and guidelines concerning workplace exposures need further develop men t in many countries. It is important that occupational health and safety personnel, as well as experts in this field, assist employers and employees in the development of good workplace policies for the protection of the reproductive functioning of male and female workers. A protocol for effective risk assessment is described.

Keywords:

• risk assessment
• reproduction
• work
• legislation