[Algorithms for the evaluation of chemical risk: the Piedmont Region's experience]

The programme InfoRisk, proposed by the Piedmont Region in 2002, has been an important reference point for the evaluation of chemical risk, both for companies and the regional prevention system alike. Nowadays, it is still considered necessary to take advantage of simple methods for the evaluation of this risk. However, the Piedmontese model requires some modification so as to keep it in line with the national and international rules and regulations governing the question and to find some solutions to problems that have arisen in its practical application. Most of these problems are tied to the use of the section of the evaluation technique, which is base on the estimate and not on the measurement of the exposure. Indeed, it has been confirmed in some cases that it is not possible to discard a more accurate evaluation which is not only able to make a correct application of the scientific evidence available in a correct manner, but also one that is supported by environmental monitoring campaigns. The main modifications proposed to the model are herein presented. The Work Group has endeavoured to maintain, whenever possible, the previous logic processes of the algorithm, so as to conserve its "user friendly" aspects and clarity that have so often been reported and appreciated by the operators who applied it.