TABLE 3.

Severity Ranking of Effects and Benefits and Multipliers to the Framework^a

	Multiplier to the incidence of effect/benefit
EPA severity ranking of effects
NOEL (no effect)	0
NOAEL (nonadverse effect)	1
(LO)AEL (adverse effect)	2
FEL (frank toxicity)	3
“Severity” ranking of benefits
None	0
Minimal (decreased arthritis)	1
Moderate (lower blood pressure)	2
Maximum (decreased CHD)	3

Note. CHD, coronary heart disease; FEL, frank effect level; LOAEL, lowest observed adverse effect level; NOAEL, no observed adverse effect level; NOEL, no observed effect level.

^aPlease note the intended association of the term “severity” with “benefits.” In order to balance risks with benefits, matching schemes, and terminology, seem appropriate.