Priority setting for the evaluation of existing chemicals the approach of the German advisory committee on existing chemicals of environmental relevance (BUA)

A method is described, which allows a rapid classification of chemicals. Based on data sets, exposure and ecotoxic and toxic effects are evaluated to enable overall classification into the following groups: I) Chemicals probably hazardous for man or environment, II) Chemicals where data are not sufficient for classification, and III) Chemicals probably non hazardous. Chemicals considered to be of relevance only at the workplace are classified seperately (Group IV)