
Exposure Pathways
Exposure pathways refer to the routes through which people come into contact with hazardous substances. These pathways typically include three key components: a source of contamination (like a chemical spill), a medium of transport (such as air, water, or soil), and a point of exposure (where people can interact with the contaminant, like a nearby drinking water supply). Understanding these pathways helps assess potential health risks from environmental pollutants, guiding efforts to protect public health and safety.
Additional Insights
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Exposure pathways refer to the routes through which people can come into contact with harmful substances, such as chemicals or pollutants. These pathways usually include three key components: the source of the substance, the medium through which it travels (like air, water, or soil), and the exposure point where people might come into contact with it. For example, if a factory releases pollutants into the air, they can travel through the air and be inhaled by nearby residents. Understanding these pathways helps assess risks and develop strategies to protect public health.