Risk characterization framework

The predictive risk equation developed by Naugle and co-workers is based on four general equations. These equations relate source factors, activity patterns, dose factors, and dose response to risk. The equations are:

Exposure

Concentration x Duration = Exposure

Dose

Exposure x Dosimetry factors = Dose

Individual risk

Dose x Dose-Response relationship = Individual Risk

Population Risk

Individual Risk x Exposed population = Population risk

The framework subdivides the four components of the risk assessment process into ten elements to provide a refined and systematic way of describing the risk estimation process. These elements are:

The pollutant concentration of interest depends on the effect that is of interest. The concentration may be the peak concentration, the average concentration, or some threshold concentration.

The exposure duration and setting combines the setting in which exposure occurs and an estimation of the time spent in that environment.