Legal and Administrative Regulations Related to Multiple Chemical Sensitivity

Abstract

Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS) is a controversial disorder characterized by a recurrent set of diverse clinical manifestations, involving a broad spectrum of organ systems, that are induced by environmental chemicals at doses far below those usually harmful to most persons. To prevent MCS and other adverse effects on human health from environmental chemicals, concentration thresholds of frequently used chemicals in homes, workplaces, and schools are defined by several legal and administrative regulations. However, only a small percentage of the tens of thousands of environmental chemicals in use have been evaluated for toxicity and accumulation, and recent amendments of laws and regulations are directed toward comprehensive management of chemicals as a whole.