This test method should generate data to identify the majority of chronic effects and shall serve to define long-term dose response relationships. In addition the test should allow for the detection of general toxic effects including neurological, physiological, biochemical, and hematological effects and exposure-related morphological (pathology) effects.

This test method should provide information on target organs, the possibilities of accumulation, and may be used for establishing safety criteria for human exposure. It provides information on potential health hazards likely to arise from repeated exposure over a long period of time.

1.1 This test method covers a long-term study to determine the effects of a substance in a mammalian species such as the rat following prolonged and repeated oral exposure. Under the conditions of the chronic toxicity test, effects that require a long latency period or that are cumulative should become manifest.

1.2 This test method assumes that the user is knowledgeable in mammalian toxicology and related pertinent areas, and relies heavily on the judgment of the evaluator.

1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The inch-pound units given in parentheses are for information only.

This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. For specific hazard statements, see Section 6.