ABSTRACT
This chapter defines occupational toxicology and examines the dimensions of toxicological hazards and risks posed in workplaces. It also looks at the range of substances used in occupational settings and what is and is not known about the hazards such substances present to workers. The details of toxicological methodologies and testing are dealt with elsewhere in the volume and this chapter simply highlights the key tests used. The major problems and limits of occupational toxicology are, however, identified. The problems relating to attempts to establish safe thresholds or occupational exposure levels for workers are particularly important and these are set in scientific and also social context. Different strategies for establishing safe levels of exposure are described and discussed.
