The new Regulation on biocides that has as main aim to ensure that only safe products are made available and that the most dangerous substances are kept out of our market, entered into force on the 17 of July 2012.

New rules on biocides that offer more efficient provisions for the authorisation of products, the requirements and sharing of product-related data, entered into force last 17 of July 2012. According to the European Commission, these rules will save industry an estimated 2.7 billion euros over a period of 10 years. The Regulation was approved by the European Parliament in January 2012.

The European Commission has reviewed the Biocides 1998 directive and concluded that the authorisation processes for active substances and products could be simplified and streamlined. Biocidal products are part of everyday life. They include disinfectants used at home or in hospitals, rat poison, insect repellents, anti-mould sprays and paints, water purification tablets and many other products.

The new provisions also reduce animal testing by making data sharing compulsory and encouraging a more flexible and integrated approach to testing. A dedicated IT platform (the Register for Biocidal Products) will be used for submitting applications as well as recording decisions and disseminating information to the public. Protection will also be extended as the new legislation will now include goods and materials which are treated with biocidal products, such as furniture and food packaging.