The profession of risk assessor in regulatory(eco)toxicology: A new approach to standards for professional recognition and training

The profession of risk assessor in regulatory(eco)toxicology: A new approach to standards for professional recognition and training Faced with major challenges such as REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals) and the application of the precautionary principle, in this difficult economic climate and with new social and ethical requirements, the tools, and methods for chemical risk assessment are in the process of rapid change. These changes seek to make it possible to take into account the complexity, variability and interrelations of living organisms and their environment and improve the health and environmental efficacy of regulations at a better cost-benefit ratio. The challenge, beyond the necessary recognition of this profession of regulatory (eco)toxicology risk assessor, is the dissemination of standards for accreditation/certification and for methodologies and rationales between the different social actors concerned. This article will present the different levels and standards of chemical risk assessment in order to define it thoroughly. In this context, we will present and discuss in detail the skills currently required for conducting chemical risk assessments in regulatory (eco)toxicology, as well as the educational, training, and certification requirements in Europe and in France.