Development of a standard guide for selecting ecological endpoints by the ASTM consensus process

Conference · Sun Dec 31 04:00:00 EST 1995

OSTI ID:203637

Kangas, M ^[1]

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1. McLaren/Hart-ChemRisk, Cleveland, OH (United States)

The American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) Subcommittee E47.1 3 on Assessment of Risk to Human Health and the Environment from Contaminated Sites is developing standard guides for performing a variety of technical risk assessment activities. Standards are developed through a consensus process involving scientists representing a broad range of perspectives. Subcommittee E47.13 consists of five Sections (Data Collection, Exposure Assessment, Toxicity Assessment, Risk Characterization and General Topics). Each section is made up of Task Groups formed to prepare specific standard guides. Task Group E47.13.02.A on Ecological Endpoints within Section E47.13.02 on Exposure Assessment is developing a guide for selecting and using assessment and measurement endpoints for performing ecological risk assessments at contaminated sites. The Guide presents the procedures for identification, selection and use of endpoints during problem formulation and work Included in the Guide is the following information: (1) definitions of key terms; (2) a list of related ASTM standards, references and documents; (3) a discussion of general issues to be addressed in identifying and selecting endpoints; (4) desirable characteristics of assessment and measurement endpoints.; (5) a discussion of candidate ecological receptors; (6) examples of assessment and measurement endpoints; (7) specific steps for identifying, selecting and using endpoints; (8) how to address uncertainties in the selection of endpoints; (9) procedures for documenting the endpoint selection process; (10) instructions for preparing a checklist of ecological endpoints for a specific site; and (11) a bibliography of relevant references. The ASTM consensus procedures followed by the Task Group in developing the Guide and the details of the Guide`s contents and procedures are presented. Finalization of the Guide is anticipated in 1995.

• OSTI ID: 203637
• Report Number(s): CONF-9511137--; ISBN 1-880611-03-1
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

29 ENERGY PLANNING, POLICY, AND ECONOMY
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
HEALTH HAZARDS
RECOMMENDATIONS
RISK ASSESSMENT
WASTE MANAGEMENT