Criteria for skin notation in different countries.
BACKGROUND
Skin notation criteria was introduced almost 50 years ago as a qualitative indicator of a hazard related to dermal absorption at work. However, risk is not a qualitative term, but needs a quantitative measure to be useful for prevention. For this reason, some countries have developed alternative criteria for assigning skin notations to industrial chemicals.


METHODS
The present analysis compares the current use of skin notations on lists of exposure limits for industrial chemicals in six countries.


RESULTS
Up to one-third of industrial chemicals listed now have a skin notation. The criteria for assigning skin notation differ but cannot explain the substantial discrepancies between countries that otherwise have very comparable occupational exposure limits (OELs).


CONCLUSIONS
The increasing number of chemicals with a skin notation requires a new approach to differentiating between degrees of risk. The first step will be to address the problems related to criteria for assigning skin notations, and the effect of penetration enhancers and mixtures.
Nielsen
Jesper B
JB
Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, DK-5000 Odense C, Denmark. jbnielsen@health.sdu.dk
Grandjean
Philippe
P
D000485:Allergens / Q000009:adverse effects; D005060:Europe; D015386:Hazardous Substances / Q000493:pharmacokinetics*; D006801:Humans; D008452:Maximum Allowable Concentration; D016273:Occupational Exposure / Q000517:prevention & control* / Q000592:standards*; D012869:Skin Absorption; D014481:United States
D000485:Allergens; D015386:Hazardous Substances