A Method for Improving Chemical Product Risk Profiles as Part of Product Development

Abstract A robust chemical product comparative scoring process (CSP) has been developed that facilitates continuous improvement in human and environmental hazard reduction. The method is simple and quick enough to use during development of new products, is adaptable to changing needs and visually communicates the hazard profile improvements of new products. The CSP is used during product development. Human and environmental hazard profiles of developmental products are compared to current products used for similar purposes. Since the CSP requires little additional time, it allows hazard profiles to be determined during project development and identifies areas of potential improvement to the hazard profile. The CSP uses specified categories of concern for which public databases exist. For substances that have no database information, US EPA computer models are used. Using the CSP method, hazard profiles of formulations may be improved during the development phase of the project and the results are reported in a visual, qualitative, comparative format. The CSP has been used to improve the human and environmental hazard profiles of several types of chemical products. This paper will outline how the CSP is used for hazard profile improvement as a part of a development project, reducing delays due to testing or reformulating. The unique visual presentation format of the CSP allows hazard profile improvements over existing products to be easily identified by, and communicated to customers and other concerned parties. The CSP yields the most valid comparisons when data is available for the existing and proposed substances. Computer models are effective if used by personnel trained to use them. The process must include communication with (and validation by) regulatory and toxicology specialists.