Step VII: Conclusions on endocrine disrupting properties

The conclusions reached in Step V of the ECETOC 7SI-ED should be explained. If a biologically plausible link between an adverse effect in an intact organism and endocrine activity has been identified in Step V, then it is reasonable to conclude that an endocrine disrupting property in accordance with the WHO/IPCS (2002) definition has been identified.

If there is evidence for endocrine activity, which however does not meet the criteria in Step V, then an endocrine disruptor has not been identified. Although such substances may be considered by some to be ‘suspected endocrine disruptors’, the Commission considers that establishing categories of what may be an endocrine disruptor does not help to define what is an endocrine disruptor for the purposes of regulatory decision-making (Commission, 2016; (Italics are by the Commission). Furthermore, such categorisation would decrease legal certainty for regulators and stakeholders, without established benefits in terms of protection of health and the environment.