5.6: Non-Governmental Regulatory Toxicology

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Learning Objectives

1: Define what is meant by a “Non-Governmental Regulatory Toxicology”.
2: Give several examples of non-governmental entities that conduct and influence regulatory toxicology.

What is Non-Governmental Regulatory Toxicology?

They are groups that are not officially part of a government agency that conduct and/or influence regulatory toxicology. Examples of such groups may include not-for-profit organizations, advocacy groups, professional societies, industry trade associations and individual companies. The term “NGO” (short for non-governmental organization(s)) is sometimes used; however, the term “NGO” often is limited to advocacy groups.

These groups often can conduct or influence regulatory toxicology on a much faster timeframe than government agencies. Government agencies often take many months or years to enact regulations, policies, and guidance; while non-governmental entities often proceed at a fraction of this time. Lastly, they often lack the transparency found in government agencies in terms of decision making, as well as the ability to provide input.

Examples of a non-governmental entities that conduct and influence regulatory toxicology

Advocacy groups – Often have a particular focus such as the proper treatment of animals, environmental sustainability, women’s health…
Individual companies – For-profit businesses that decide to address a particular topic related to regulatory toxicology. Examples include eliminating use of certain chemicals, reduce use of water, increasing recycling…
Trade Associations – represent business that have a common or similar commercial interest (e.g., chemical manufacture, consumer products). Often create industry best practices or guidance for issues related to regulatory toxicology.

Topic 6: Key Points

In this section, we explored the following main points:

1: What is Non-Governmental Regulatory Toxicology?
2: Examples of different types of non-governmental entities that conduct and influence regulatory toxicology.

Knowledge Check

1. Which of the following is a trait found in a non-governmental entities?

Must engage with the general public prior to taking actions.

Have lengthy processes that often take decades to complete.

Is not a government agency or formally associated with a government agency.

A narrowly defined entity that is not common in society.

Answer: Is not a government agency or formally associated with a government agency.

2. Which of the following is an example of non-governmental regulatory toxicology?

A not-for profit company developing standards and conducting certifications regarding the sustainability of products.

An advocacy group that provides input to government and industry related to reducing lead in consumer products.

An organization representing chemists develops guidance on workplace safety concerning corrosive chemicals.

All of the above

Answer: All of the above