Risk Assessment Methodologies for Carcinogenic Compounds in Indoor Air

Bjørn A Nexø

《Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment & Health》 21卷5期 (1995/09) Pp. 376-381

並列摘要

Objectives The purpose of this study was to compare different methods for calculating maximal allowable concentrations of potentially carcinogenic substances in indoor air. Benzene, tetrachloroethylene, trichloroethylene, and vinyl chloride were selected as the model substances.
Methods Estimates were used of carcinogenic potency from quantitative risk assessment, lowest observable effect levels (LOEL) from animal experiments and epidemiologic studies combined with safety factors, and estimation from occupational exposure limits with safety factors. The estimates were compared with actual concentrations in buildings in Denmark.
Results Concentrations of benzene, tetrachloroethylene, trichloroethylene, and vinyl chloride of the order of 10, 20, 200, and 40 ppb, respectively, in indoor air were found to correspond to a 10^(-4) lifetime risk of cancer.
Conclusions The estimated maximal allowable concentrations of carcinogenic compounds obtained from indoor air by quantitative risk assessment using a lifetime risk of 10^(-4) or using LOEL values and suitable safety factors appear to be comparable and reasonable. Calculations based on occupational exposure limits and safety factors generally give comparable or somewhat higher values. Using a lifetime risk of for quantitative risk assessment does not seem reasonable considering the risks associated with the activities of everyday life.

並列關鍵字

benzene ； cancer ； tetrachloroethylene ； trichloroethylene ； vinyl chloride