The Federal Environment Ministry (BMU) and the German Chemical Industry Association (VCI) have achieved first positive results in their joint project to increase knowledge on substances that are taken up by the human body. Scientists working on the project succeeded for the first time in developing analytical methods for the substances DINCH, DPHP and MDI. Next, these new methods will be validated by the German Research Foundation (DFG). The above substances are used as plasticisers and form part of one-component foams for the fixation and insulation of window and door frames. The new methods will now be applied in relevant studies in the general public.
In parallel, the cooperation partners will continue their work on detection methods for additional substances: The cooperation partners have decided on five additional substances for which a measurement method is to be developed for the first time. Highly renowned experts from research, industry and competent authorities advise BMU and VCI on the selection of substances.
The five newly selected substances are the cyclic siloxanes D4, D5 and D6, geraniol and the mixture chloromethylisothiazolinone/methylisothiazolinone (3:1). They are used as ingredients in cosmetics and as scents and preservatives in both industrial and cosmetic products.
BMU and VCI focus in their human biomonitoring cooperation on substances which might result in a potentially increased exposure of the population or which might be of special relevance to human health, but which up to now cannot be measured in the human body. By 2020, analytical methods for up to 50 jointly selected substances or substance groups are to be developed; the methods will then be used in studies. The cooperation, which was launched in 2010, is being tested in a pilot phase to be concluded in spring 2013.
The VCI is responsible for developing the specific detection methods. Applying the methods in relevant studies is the responsibility of the BMU which will cooperate closely on this with the Federal Environment Agency (UBA).
The development of analytical methods is a complex and cost intensive process. However, if in the coming years new analytical methods are successfully developed for up to 50 substances, this will substantially increase knowledge of the real exposure of the population to major industrial chemicals. At present, it is all too often necessary to resort to models and estimates, which easily over- or underestimate health risks.
For health related environmental protection, human biomonitoring is a key information and monitoring instrument. The data thus obtained can serve as an early warning system for previously unidentified exposures. In order to determine whether the detection of a substance also means that it will have detrimental effects on human health, a risk assessment has to be carried out which includes e.g. medical and toxicological findings. In addition, human biomonitoring also provides scientific data on whether bans or restrictions on substances of concern have really led to a decrease in population exposure.
Human biomonitoring is a major instrument of prevention in occupational health and safety in the chemical industry. The VCI has been working in this field for many years and now contributes these experiences to joint activities with the BMU. With this commitment, the chemical industry underlines the great importance of product safety under the chemical industry's "Responsible Care" programme.