Impact of - IDL-BNC @ IDRC - International Development Research ...

scientists on a contractual basis, then sent to independent referees and,
through the Groupement international des associations nationales de fabricants
de produits agrochimiques (GIFAP), to industry for comment. Publication
follows only after mutual agreement of all involved.
International chemical safety cards
The international chemical safety cards summarize essential product-identity
data and health and safety information on chemicals for use by workers and
employers in factories, agriculture, and other workplaces. The cards are
prepared using standard phrases, complemented, when appropriate, with
information specific to the pesticide being used.
Risk management
After assessment of the risk arising from pesticides, the IPCS pays considerable
attention to activities that reduce the risk to an acceptable level. This is
done through three areas of activity: prevention of pesticide poisoning; promotion
of safe use of pesticides; and education and training. The activities are
implemented through joint programs with other international organizations.
Prevention of pesticide poisoning
Prevention of pesticide poisoning is a specific WHO objective and is defined
as an outstanding activity within the IPCS. It includes the production of
guidelines for poison control and the validation of antidotes (and their availability)
used in the treatment of poisonings. The key role of IPCS in these
activities is developing information systems for poison control, including
harmonization and exchange of data. Particular attention is given to the
medical response to chemical emergencies in the case of an accident.
Lack of information on the extent of pesticide poisonings is an immediate
concern of WHO, industry, and national governments, particularly those of
the developing world. Even where adequate data are available, the collection
and collation of data on pesticide poisoning worldwide remains an on-going
activity of WHO.
Safe use of pesticides
Among WHO's activities concerning the safe use of pesticides, special attention
is paid to identifying sources of increased health hazards. Pest resistance
to certain types of pesticides or a significant increase in cost requires a search
for alternative compounds that are more effective or cheaper, but only occasionally
safer. One of WHO's priorities is to encourage the development of
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