A Cumulative Risk Perspective for Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Professionals

Richard Todd Niemeier, Pamela R.D. Williams, Alan Rossner, Jane E. Clougherty and Glenn E. Rice
Additional contact information
Richard Todd Niemeier: Division of Science Integration, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Cincinnati, OH 45226, USA
Pamela R.D. Williams: E Risk Sciences, LLP, Lafayette, CO 80026, USA
Alan Rossner: Institute for a Sustainable Environment, Clarkson University, Potsdam, NY 13699, USA
Jane E. Clougherty: Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
Glenn E. Rice: Center for Public Health and Environmental Assessment, Office of Research and Development, USA EPA, Cincinnati, OH 45268, USA

IJERPH, 2020, vol. 17, issue 17, 1-19

Abstract: Cumulative risk assessment (CRA) addresses the combined risk associated with chemical and non-chemical exposures. Although CRA approaches are utilized in environmental and ecological contexts, they are rarely applied in workplaces. In this perspectives article, we strive to raise awareness among occupational health and safety (OHS) professionals and foster the greater adoption of a CRA perspective in practice. Specifically, we provide an overview of CRA literature as well as preliminary guidance on when to consider a CRA approach in occupational settings and how to establish reasonable boundaries. Examples of possible workplace co-exposures and voluntary risk management actions are discussed. We also highlight important implications for workplace CRA research and practice. In particular, future needs include simple tools for identifying combinations of chemical and non-chemical exposures, uniform risk management guidelines, and risk communication materials. Further development of practical CRA methods and tools are essential to meet the needs of complex and changing work environments.

Keywords: CRA; cumulative risk; exposure assessment; industrial hygiene; workplace; OHS professionals (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2020
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (2)

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