Evaluating Toxicological Databases for Occupational Health Professionals
Author Information
Author(s): Laamanen Irja, Verbeek Jos, Franco Giuliano, Lehtola Marika, Luotamo Marita
Primary Institution: Finnish Institute of Occupational Health
Hypothesis
Can we identify and rate toxicological databases to assist occupational health professionals in finding reliable information?
Conclusion
A rating system effectively distinguishes between toxicological databases based on their appropriateness, quality, and usability for occupational health professionals.
Supporting Evidence
- 21 databases were identified that met the inclusion criteria for providing toxicological information.
- Nine databases are administered by governmental organizations.
- TOXNET scored the highest in quality assessment among the databases evaluated.
- The study developed a model for occupational health professionals to efficiently find toxicological information.
Takeaway
This study helps health workers find the best online databases for toxic chemical information, making it easier to keep workers safe.
Methodology
A systematic search was conducted to identify toxicological databases, which were then rated by independent assessors based on user needs, quality of information, and usability.
Potential Biases
Variability in evaluator expertise may introduce bias in the ratings.
Limitations
The study may not have identified all relevant databases, and the quality assessments were subjective.
Participant Demographics
Four independent assessors with different academic backgrounds evaluated the databases.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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