Risk Management, Toxicology, Exposure and Health

Module leader

Dr Sophie Rocks


Aim

The aim of this module is for the student to be conversant in the general application of toxicological, exposure and risk assessment methodologies for human health endpoints related to amenity impacts, chemical exposure, the selection of risk management options and the communication of risk.

 

Syllabus

  • The purpose and process of risk assessment
  • Concept of human exposure monitoring - overview of sources and pathways of exposure, exposure assessment approaches and applications
  • Acute and chronic toxicological end-points in mammals; Target organ toxicology
  • Hazardous and pathogenic wastes
  • Risk perception and Communication
  • Components included in undertaking a health impact assessment (HIA)
  • Legal aspects where HIA is required and associated UK and EU laws and regulations.

 

Intended learning outcomes

On successful completion of this module the student will be able to:

  1. Understand and explain the overall process of risk assessment and delineate this from risk management and communication.
  2. Demonstrate an insight into the drivers that may influence individual or group perceptions and attitudes towards risk.
  3. Chemical and biological substances to cause harm to humans and how they can be employed strategically to undertake hazard/risk assessment.
  4. Demonstrate knowledge of the principles and techniques for amenity impact measurement and control.
  5. Demonstrate a conceptual understanding of the range of acute and chronic harmful effects that can be caused by short and long-term exposure in environmental and occupational settings.
  6. Explain the objective and elements that may be required in an HIA, including scientific, health and social science aspects.