6. Frequently asked questions

Are there OELs for each substance?

No, only substances that are particularly hazardous and/or produced in large volumes are subject to OELs. Official bodies are unable to work on the approximately 100,000 substances on the market. This is why, under REACH, producers are required to define DNELs and DMELs, which can be used pending official OELs.

Are OELs harmonized at the European or international level?

It should be remembered that OELs are part of the risk management measures implemented in each country, and that these OELs are defined according to toxicological and epidemiological criteria, but also socio-economic criteria. This means that the concept of acceptable risk for a substance may vary from country to country for a variety of reasons.

What is the difference between OELs and DNELs?...