The international toxicity equivalency factor (I-TEF) method of risk assessment for complex mixtures of dioxins and related compounds

The International Toxicity Equivalency Factor (I-TEF) method of risk assessment is an updated interim procedure for estimating the risks associated with exposures to complex mixtures of chlorinated dibenzo- p-dioxins and dibenzofurans (CDDs and CDFs). The I-TEF approach facilitates risk communication internationally by reducing large volumes of analytical data into a single number-International Toxicity Equivalents (I-TEQ). The I-TEF method has been officially adopted in Canada, the Netherlands, the Nordic countries, the United Kingdom, and the United States. As a result, the I-TEF method represents an improvement in an already useful risk assessment/regulatory tool.