EU issues new rule on biocides

Substances that act to reduce or eliminate bacteria, viruses or mold—and products treated with such biocides—will be subject to a new European Union (EU) regulation (528/2012) that takes effect on Sept. 1, 2013. The new regulation focuses on improving the safety of consumer products by controlling biocide marketing and use. The three main requirements for suppliers of biocides or products containing biocides are: statutory approval of the biocide based on its effectiveness and safety; identification of the biocide’s active ingredient, as well as any nanotechnology components; and specified uses of the biocide, broken down into four main product groups and 22 product types. Antimicrobial clothing, textiles or products can be approved by a simplified process, if the biocide has been proven effective through independent testing.