Translation of core terms of chemical risk assessment into the language of systematic review: research protocol

The focus on implementation of systematic review (SR) principles in chemical risk assessments (CRAs) is growing as it has the potential to advance the rigour and transparency of the CRAs. However, the SR and CRA communities use their own specific terminologies. Understanding the meaning of core SR and CRA terms and where they overlap is critical for application of SR methods and principles in CRAs. Moreover, it will increase the possibility for cross-sectorial collaboration, avoid misunderstandings, and improve communication among risk assessors, researchers, and policy makers. We present a process for the translation of core CRA terms into the SR language. Core terms for study appraisal, evidence synthesis and integration used in the SR and CRA communities will be included. The outcome will be an overview of how core SR terms map onto core CRA terms and a description of the relationship and conceptual overlap between the terms. The cross-mapping is divided in four phases, where in the first phase the core SR and CRA terms will be identified. In the second phase, existing CRA definitions will be mapped. Authoritative definitions for core SR terms will be derived in the third phase. In the fourth phase descriptions of the relationship and conceptual overlap between the terms will be derived. The third and fourth phase will include weekly one-hour online meetings for SR and CRA experts.