SARAH: an expert system for training non-hygienists in carrying out occupational hygiene assessments

The London Research Station of British Gas plc has developed an expert system as a training aid for managers responsible for assessments of the risks to health from exposure to harmful substances. SARAH (System for Advising on the Regulations for Assessing Hazards) uses an expert system shell with hypertext capabilities and runs on IBM compatible personal computers. Expert advice on occupational hygiene is not readily available: SARAH is therefore of value since it can free an experienced occupational hygienist for more complex tasks. It is used by British Gas, helping the company to comply with the requirements of the COSHH (Control Of Substances Hazardous to Health) Regulations.