Risk assessment methodologies for carcinogenic compounds in indoor air
比较了定量风险评估、动物实验最低观察效应水平结合安全因子、以及职业暴露限值结合安全因子这三种计算室内空气中致癌物最大允许浓度的方法，并以丹麦建筑中的实际浓度验证。
OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study was to compare different methods for calculating maximal allowable concentrations of potentially carcinogenic substances in indoor air. Benzene, tetrachloroethylene, trichloroethylene, and vinyl chloride were selected as the model substances. METHODS: Estimates were used of carcinogenic potency from quantitative risk assessment, lowest observable effect levels (LOEL) from animal experiments and epidemiologic studies combined with safety factors, and estimation from occupational exposure limits with safety factors. The estimates were compared with actual concentrations in buildings in Denmark. RESULTS: Concentrations of benzene, tetrachloroethylene, trichloroethylene, and vinyl chloride of the order of 10, 20, 200, and 40 ppb, respectively, in indoor air were found to correspond to a 10(-4) lifetime risk of cancer. CONCLUSIONS: The estimated maximal allowable concentrations of carcinogenic compounds obtained from indoor air by quantitative risk assessment using a lifetime risk of 10(-4) or using LOEL values and suitable safety factors appear to be comparable and reasonable. Calculations based on occupational exposure limits and safety factors generally give comparable or somewhat higher values. Using a lifetime risk of 10(-6) for quantitative risk assessment does not seem reasonable considering the risks associated with the activities of everyday life.