Harmonization of criteria documents for standard setting in occupational health: a report of a workshop

The paper presents the most important points of the discussion, recommendations, and conclusions of a workshop on harmonization of criteria documents (CDs) for standard setting in occupational health, with emphasis on standard setting in the European Community (EC). The objectives were to achieve harmonized CDs and to develop a mechanism for international cooperation. The discussion focused on three broad topics: contents of CDs; collection, assessment, and evaluation of data; and procedures for the preparation and exchange of CDs on specific chemicals. Annex A on the various procedures for standard setting by EC Member States, countries outside the EC, and international organizations and Annex B on the proposed contents of the CDs are also included.