Variation and uncertainty sources in exposure estimation in health risk assessments of contaminated lands: characterization, comparative study and methods for better handling

Summary

Health studies (ERS) relating to polluted sites and soils (SSP) involve a large number of parameters with varying degrees of uncertainty. It is unrealistic to attempt to reduce or control all of these uncertainties. On the other hand, in order to improve the level of confidence to be placed in the results of these quantitative assessments, it would be very useful to identify the uncertainties that need to be addressed as a priority, and to know the methods available for reducing them. To contribute to this objective, RECORD has produced a very detailed but practical report focusing on the part of the HRAs concerned with estimating exposure. The report successively presents (i) the basic concepts relating to uncertainties, (ii) the regulatory procedures in France and abroad, (iii) the main sources of uncertainty in the estimation of exposures, (iv) the recommendations for taking better account of uncertainties in PHC health studies, (v) numerical illustrations of the influence of sources of uncertainty on HRA results, (vi) recommendations to guide the HRA sponsor and provider in dealing with uncertainties, and finally (vi) short-term research prospects in the field.