In November 1996, ICME held an International Workshop on Risk Assessment of Metals and Their Inorganic Compounds in Angers, France, which was organized in collaboration with, and with the advice of, the International Programme on Chemical Safety, Health Canada, the Australian Department of Health and Family Services and the Chilean National Commission on the Environment. This workshop was part of ICME's ongoing contribution to international work on harmonization of chemical classifications and risk assessment. Between annual board meetings, an Executive Committee assumes responsibility for overall policy guidance. ICME operations are managed by a secretariat whose officers are responsible for the work of four standing committees. These committees, which are composed of representatives from member companies, guide ICME s program and projects, as well as provide policy advice to the Board of Directors.
Committees meet twice a year.
The committee emphasizes the importance of monitoring and assessing key toxicological, ecotoxicological, epidemiological and exposure information leading to policy developments that consider risk assessment principles as the basis of risk management. As well, it contributes to international discussions about proposed regulations and policies and keeps abreast of new developments relating to environmental policies, practices and techniques. It also assesses emerging issues and contributes effectively to international policy and program development. The committee also considers issues and opportunities relating to stakeholder consultation and to the economic and social development of communities that rely on mineral resources. As part of its ongoing efforts to contribute to a better understanding of the key environmental and health issues related to the mining and production of non-ferrous metals, and of the role metals play in society, ICME publishes material whose contents range from general and technical information to discussions of policy and regulatory issues.