Verification of a mathematical method for the estimation of the acute ingestion hazard of detergent preparations.
The hazard posed by the accidental ingestion of preparations has traditionally been assessed either by carrying out an acute oral toxicity test on animals or by extrapolation from data on tested preparations of similar composition. The EC Directive on the Classification, Packaging and Labelling of Dangerous Preparations (CPL Directive; EEC, 1988) requires that a preparation is classified by a mathematical procedure known as the Conventional Method. This method can result in preparations being classified as "Harmful" by ingestion even though they are not considered to be a significant ingestion hazard on the basis of the results of tests on similar preparations or surveys of accidents with marketed products. This paper proposes an alternative mathematical method, the Proportionality Method, for assessing the acute ingestion hazard of detergent preparations. Based on historical animal test data, the Proportionality Method predicted acute ingestion hazard classification better than the Conventional Method. The number of preparations which would be labelled unnecessarily is reduced, while the safety to the consumer is not compromised by underclassification. The Proportionality Method could reduce the number of animal tests needed to overturn incorrect classifications obtained by the Conventional Method by providing a more rational estimate of the acute oral ingestion hazard.
Holland
G H
GH
Unilever Research, Environmental Safety Laboratory, Colworth House, Sharnbrook, Bedford MK44 1LQ, UK.