Recognizing the significance of dermal exposure, the European Commission funded and convened a consultative meeting on dermal exposure and related issues, with the objectives of identifying gaps in knowledge, discussing future research requirements and exploring the possibility of establishing a research network for the purpose of stimulating collaborative European R&D projects. The meeting began with a series of keynote review lectures covering a range of issues associated with dermal exposure. Participants from the United States outlined the prevailing situation and likely future developments in dermal exposure assessment in the United States, and representatives of participating European states then presented a brief summary of regulatory position regarding dermal exposure in their respective countries. The prevailing position in skin and surface contamination monitoring was discussed and gaps in knowledge identified; areas of work which would result in the development of standardized methodologies were debated. The meeting resulted in the formation of five syndicate groups, these include: (i) occupational exposure assessment-risk assessment; (ii) biological monitoring; (iii) skin and surface contamination; (iv) in vitro models (skin penetration); and (v) source apportionment (dermal vs air exposure). Each syndicate group discussed and identified the R&D requirements in its area of interest and reported its findings to the meeting There was a consensus that a need exists for the establishment of a European network on dermal exposure to co-ordinate efforts in this field. Preparatory work for the establishment of the network is currently underway