Protecting Communities from Contaminants
Chemicals that can harm people are found in Washington's water, air, soil, sediments, food, consumer products, and wildlife, including fish. Public health seeks to prevent or minimize exposure to toxic compounds and reduce effects from exposure.
The Environmental Toxicology Program evaluates potential health impacts from environmental contaminants in our state. We partner with local, state, and federal agencies, Tribal governments, and local communities to prevent harmful exposures to toxic chemicals in the environment. We evaluate emerging issues, provide technical assessments, recommend values for protective standards, and issue public health advice. We also serve as science advisors to policymakers, provide information for the public on the web, and participate in community meetings. Our work informs communities, residents, health professionals, state agencies, and policymakers at the state and federal levels.
Projects Involving Our Toxicologists
The Environmental Toxicology Program has evaluated many environmental contaminants in Washington and takes action to reduce their potential negative health impacts. The following are some of our projects.
Our toxicologists also partner with other agencies.