In the wider vicinity of companies, there is often unease on the part of people concerning the possible health risks of environmental contamination.
VITO studies the possible health impact via integrated risk assessment studies. To model the exposure, we compile environmental measurement data on soil and household dust, water, foodstuffs, indoor and outdoor air, together with demographic data and knowledge of human activities and behaviour. The exposure can be compared with available toxicological levels in order to evaluate the human health risks.
An exposure model makes it possible for us to determine the most important sources and exposure routes, so that efficient policy measures and preventative action can be taken. It also allows us to calculate future scenarios that assess the impact of policy measures on public health.
VITO has developed exposure models for local and European governments and industry, and where possible validated these with existing biomonitoring data.
Examples of applications in Flanders include:
