Building trust in the integration of artificial intelligence into chemical risk assessment: findings from the 2024 ECETOC workshop

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is increasingly influencing chemical risk assessment, enabling faster, more comprehensive, and potentially more ethical assessments. The application of AI in chemical risk assessment refers to both generative and predictive algorithms encompassing machine learning, to analyse complex chemical, biological, and environmental data and provide insights into adverse effect potential for humans and ecosystems. AI systems support the prediction of chemical hazards, exposure levels, and adverse effects by learning from experimental results, mechanistic models, and regulatory datasets, thereby enhancing the efficiency of safety evaluations. 

In October 2024, ECETOC held an international workshop, with experts from academia, industry, and regulatory bodies, to reflect upon the historical challenges in integrating multidimensional omics technologies into chemical regulation and explore the current capabilities and future potential of AI in toxicology and regulatory science. Discussions emphasised that implementation of Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable (FAIR) data principles is not just a best practice but rather a prerequisite for building transparent, reliable, and unbiased AI systems. The reliability of AI in producing scientifically valid and socially responsible outcomes depends fundamentally on the availability of FAIR data. However, ensuring trustworthiness also requires robust governance frameworks that go beyond data and human oversight. Critical enablers of responsible AI in chemical risk assessment are rigorous governance, explainability, fit-for-purpose applications, and human oversight. ECETOC supports the development of flexible and iterative frameworks advancing development, validation, transparency, accountability, and trust in AI applications in chemicals regulation.