Which step in risk assessment integrates hazard data, exposure data, and dose-response information to describe overall risk?

• A. Risk characterization
• B. Hazard identification
• C. Exposure assessment
• D. Dose-response assessment

Answer: (A)

The step being tested is the one that brings together all the pieces to describe the overall risk. Risk characterization synthesizes hazard data, exposure data, and dose–response information to estimate and describe the magnitude and probability of adverse health effects, including uncertainties and variability. It translates what could cause harm (hazards), how much exposure people have, and how response relates to dose into an overall risk description that informs decisions.

Hazard identification asks whether a substance can cause harm, but it doesn't quantify risk. Dose–response assessment links dose to the effect's likelihood or severity, but it doesn't account for how much people are exposed. Exposure assessment evaluates how, how much, and for whom people are exposed, but it doesn't integrate those exposures with the harm potential and the dose–response relationship. Only risk characterization combines all three to present the full risk picture.