DEVELOPMENTS IN REPRODUCTIVE RISK MANAGEMENT

Internationally, the debate on aims for occupational health policy is expanding its horizons. Included among the issues are not only concern s about safety for workers, but also for their progeny. Equality among the sexes is also assuming a prominent position. In several countries , existing and proposed legislation already considers these matters. I n the course of this article it is argued that this legislation and it s implementation are inadequate. There are several reasons for this. F irstly, what constitutes health risks for workers exposed to chemical substances is subject to different interpretations. This is further co mplicated when one includes risks to reproductive function and to the progeny: the reproductive risks of toxicity. The different interpretat ions of the concepts of safety and equality are also discussed. There are differences in regulations and in standards about whether or not s afety factors should be used when knowledge is uncertain. The operatio n of reasonable measures with a generic or sex specific policy also di ffers. Secondly, the current occupational exposure limits are set too high. These aspects are considered and it is probable that the policy aims should be made more specific. An elaborated approach that include s the ''precautionary principle'' in safety standards is proposed. To advise employers in their role as managers of reproductive risks of to xicity, a recently developed system for occupational health and safety services is described. This system is based on two criteria: effectiv eness and reasonableness of proposed measures. The effectiveness crite rion includes the precautionary principle; the reasonableness criterio n includes equal rights and opportunities for men and women. Finally, a supportive governmental policy that is consistent with the most inte rnational developments is recommended.