At RIVM – the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment of the Netherlands, we work towards a healthy population in a sustainable, safe and healthy environment for current and future generations. To that end, we connect science to practice and policy. We offer independent advice based on scientific knowledge and research. We work with organisations and people with various areas of expertise and backgrounds. We are a trusted advisor to the government, professionals and citizens.
Our Role in the CHIASMA Project
The RIVM team has solid experience in the field of alternatives for testing in animals, also referred as New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) development. Here our focus is on substance toxicity, safe-(and sustainability)-by-design principles, advanced(nano)materials, regulatory safety assessments, and the relevant laws and regulations. Within the CHIASMA project, this allows us to contribute as scientists verifying new methodologies for toxicity testing towards regulation and policy. As advisers we help translating the regulatory needs towards science.
“The primary driver behind the push for NAMs is the growing demand for more human-relevant, ethical, sustainable, and cost-effective safety and efficacy testing.”
[Prof. Dr. Flemming R. Cassee, Chief Science Officer RIVM]
At RIVM, we have a leading role in the assessment of technology transferability between the various consortium partners. This is an important step in the validation of the New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) being (further) developed in CHIASMA. Validation is of major importance to allow the generation of reliable and reproducible data to be used in Integrated Approaches to Testing and Assessment (IATAs), or as regulatory-relevant results for the European Safe and Sustainable by Design Framework.
“The implementation of NAMs in regulatory risk assessment requires clear guidance, robust validation, and confidence among all stakeholders. By working together, we can ensure that NAMs are fit for purpose and contribute to both human health protection and the reduction of animal testing.”
[Prof. Dr. Anne Kienhuis, Toxicology in Transition]
In addition, we have a role as adviser to support the various work packages to implement the generated knowledge and new technologies into existing and new risk assessment approaches. Our interest is to assess the test methods for usability in regulations and risk assessment. Furthermore, we promote standardisation and referral to the OECD for the development of test guidelines that meet the needs of regulatory requirements (e.g. those in the EU chemicals regulation REACH).
“Harmonisation and standardisation of newly developed test methods
is crucial in building trust for their use in a regulatory context.”
[Dr. Eric Bleeker, national coordinator of the OECD Test Guidelines Programme]
RIVM aims to connect science to policy and survey transfer of knowledge within the consortium, as well as between relevant (inter)national collaborators. Such knowledge transfer helps to allow the CHIASMA consortium bringing academia, industry and various regulatory bodies together. This can enhance mutual understanding requirements, desires and difficulties in implementing new technologies into risk assessment approaches. The CHIASMA activities will help to minimise the gap between rapid innovation and the applicability for regulatory approaches in safety assessment.
“Close collaboration amongst all involved partners and stakeholders will enable maximal impact of the project.”
[Dr. Wanda van der Stel, work package 5 lead]
