A risk management interpretation of a series of studies of exposure to lead

The relationship between environmental contamination, human exposure and the risk to health is a complex and fascinating area of research. This paper reviews a number of earlier studies, which focussed on contamination by Pb and sought to address this complexity. It places them within an historical context of different stages of the evolution of the field of risk analysis as applied to environmental research. A risk framework permits these scientific studies to be discussed in relation to the complex social and political environment within which the risks associated with Pb-rich particulate matter were managed (and policy was developed). This paper undertakes this analysis through a risk governance framework, which allows the relationship between the various functions required for management of the risks to be evaluated. It shows ways that values (including stakeholder concerns and risk perceptions) need to be included along with the science that underpins risk analysis in order to make sustainable judgements. It is such judgements that lie at the heart of risk management decision making.

► Presents risk governance framework approach to lead exposure. ► Interprets earlier studies on children’s exposure undertaken at Imperial College. ► Looks at the relationship between the scientific results and policy development. ► Contribution to Special Session at SEGH 2010 to honour the work of Iain Thornton.