Update of the MCRA platform: enhancing data connectivity, security, interoperability, and accessibility

Abstract

Current risk assessment practices for chemicals primarily focus on individual substances or predefined mixtures. However, people are exposed daily to multiple chemicals from diverse sources. The Monte Carlo Risk Assessment (MCRA) platform, an open web-based tool, facilitates cumulative risk assessment (CRA) of chemicals. It is developed by Wageningen University & Research (WUR, Biometris) for the Dutch Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM). The a (EFSA) and RIVM have initiated a Framework Partnership Agreement (FPA) to enhance mixture risk assessment (MRA) capabilities in MCRA. This report describes the collaborative efforts of EFSA and RIVM to make the MCRA platform more interoperable and accessible, focusing on data connectivity and security. Emphasis is placed on integrating relevant data used in Standard Regulatory Actions (SRA) implemented in MCRA, ensuring up-to-date and relevant information. RIVM's security measures, including a security quick-scan and subsequent risk management plan, ensure a secure information and communications technology (ICT) and data hosting environment, especially for privacy sensitive data (e.g., food consumption data). A workflow for data exchange from EFSA to MCRA is proposed, focusing on standardisation and automation to minimise manual operations. This workflow builds on EFSA's established yearly pesticide data collection and reporting cycle. Additionally, efforts to align MCRA with other modelling software are explored. Ensuring Open MCRA's accessibility, various user groups are defined, enhancing the platform's usability for diverse stakeholders.