Occupational exposure limits for reproductive toxicants - A comparative analysis.

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health and Safety
• Toxicology
• Chemical Risk Assessment

Background:

• Occupational exposure limits (OELs) and derived no-effect levels for workers' inhalation exposure (wDNELs) are crucial for protecting workers from reproductive and developmental toxicity.
• The effectiveness of these limits in covering known reproductive toxicants requires thorough investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the protection offered by OELs and wDNELs against reproductive and developmental toxicity.
• To compare the coverage, numerical values, and scientific basis of various OEL and wDNEL lists for reproductive toxicants.

Main Methods:

• Comparison of 14 lists of OELs and wDNELs against substances with harmonised classification as reproductive toxicant 1A or 1B.
• Analysis of substance coverage, numerical values, scientific basis, and margin of safety for reproductive toxicity.

Main Results:

• Only 53% of reproductive toxicants had at least one exposure limit across the examined lists.
• REACH Registrants' wDNELs covered the largest share (40%), but numerical values varied widely.
• 15% of safety margins were found to be insufficient for reproductive toxicity.

Conclusions:

• Current OELs and wDNELs do not sufficiently cover known reproductive toxicants under REACH and work environment legislation.
• European Union OELs cover fewer substances compared to other lists, and national OELs/wDNELs are often more conservative.