The regulatory process in toxicology

Abstract

The regulation to avoid or reduce potential health and environmental risks due to chemicals or physical factors in Germany, the European Union, and worldwide carries extremely heterogeneous features. Fundamental differences are encountered not only with regard to institutional responsibilities but also – and in particular – to nomenclature(s); definition of aims of protection; types of organization; scientific basis and extent of justification, implementation, and controls; as well as the legal status. The situation is even more complicated by interfering mandates. The system suffers from a crisis of credibility. However, recent efforts towards harmonization gain pace.