The INTOX Data Management System and harmonized data collection
The INTOX Data Management System is an electronic tool designed for poisons centres. It enables the compilation of three linked databases: for enquiries, substances and products. Once these databases are compiled, the information within them can rapidly be retrieved by poisons centre staff to answer enquiries about exposures to chemicals, pharmaceuticals, toxins and products.
The system is available in English, French, Portuguese and Spanish. It uses internationally-harmonized, controlled terminology and classifications. The standard data collection formats, together with the controlled terminology and classifications, facilitate the collection of internationally comparable data by poisons centres in multiple countries.
The INTOX Data Management System is flexible and can be adapted to a centre's specific needs, for example, to comply with national data collection requirements. An example of the use of this system for poisons centre reporting can be seen on the web site of the Centro de Información Toxicológica Universidad Católica de Chile (CITUC).
Currently 17 poisons centres in 12 countries are using the system. An INTOX users group meets periodically to discuss system developments and joint projects. There is also a technical support group that can provide training and advice on the use of the system.
The INTOX Data Management System is developed and maintained by the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) in partnership with WHO. For additional information about the system, including subscription costs, visit the CCOHS web site.
For further information on the INTOX Data Management System, contact IPCSINTOX