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Risk assessment is performed on the basis of interna-
tionally recognised scientific assessment criteria (see
diagram below). It entails the estimation of a risk using
scientific methods.
A distinction is made between qualitative risk assess-
ment, where risks are described verbally – following the
pattern outlined in the box – and quantitative risk assess-
ments, which are based at least partly on calculations or
mathematical models whereby the risks are described by
means of mathematical or statistical methods.
The risk assessments of the BfR are always the subject of
the Institute's risk communication activities too. The BfR
has the legal mandate to inform the public about poten-
tial, identified and assessed risks. The assessments are
presented in a transparent and easy-to-understand man-
ner. The findings are made publicly accessible on the BfR
website while maintaining the confidentiality of protected
data. At expert hearings, scientific conferences and con-
sumer forums, the Institute enters into a dialogue with
representatives from politics, science, associations, trade
and industry and non-government organisations.
From a possible danger to objective assessment – a simplified description of the risk assessment procedure
Hazard
identification
Hazard
description
Risk
characterisation
Identification
of potential source
of hazard
Assessment
of human exposure
Characterisation
of concrete risk
Assessment report
Exposure
estimation
Characterisation
of hazard potential
The opinions prepared by the BfR are based on internationally recognized scientific principles.
About the BfR
