If you have biocides in your production or sales range, you’ve likely learned that in addition to the basic rules that apply to all chemicals, there are always additional requirements for biocides.
Today, I will delve into the details of what a biocide product label must include.
The basic content of the label is defined by the regulations on the classification and labeling of chemicals. I’ve written about this in one of my previous articles, but let’s recap the essential elements that must be on the label of every chemical, including biocides:
- product trade name,
- supplier information,
- nominal quantity of the chemical,
- hazard classification (hazard pictograms, warning words, hazard statements, precautionary statements), if applicable.
Now, let's look at the additional requirements prescribed for labeling biocides, or what the label for these products must contain:
- information on the identity of all active substances and their concentrations,
- authorization number or other document from the competent authority for placing the biocide on the market,
- information on the type of biocide formulation (e.g., powder, liquid, solid),*
- approved methods of using the biocide (disinfection, wood protection, etc.),
- instructions for use and recommended dosage of the biocide for the approved purpose,*
- information on possible adverse effects,*
- instructions on first aid measures,*
- note: “Read instructions before use” if instructions are provided alongside the label,
- instructions for safe disposal of the biocide and its packaging, including prohibition of reuse of the packaging, if prescribed,*
- batch or lot number and expiration date of the biocide under normal storage conditions,*
- time required for the biocide to take effect,*
- interval between applications of the biocide, or until the treated surface or area can be reused, including access for people or animals,*
- information on decontamination methods and ventilation time for the treated area,*
- instructions for cleaning used equipment,*
- information on protective measures during use, storage, or transport of the biocide (personal protective equipment, fire protection measures, etc.),*
- information on users restricted from using the biocide,
- information on the harmful effects of the biocide on the environment, if applicable.*
In some cases, it may be physically impossible to include all this information on the label due to the packaging size. Information marked with an asterisk (*) can be provided in accompanying instructions instead.
For easier reference, I’ve prepared a graphic representation of the mandatory elements of a biocide product label.
It is important to note that biocides classified as hazardous must not be labeled as less hazardous or harmless to human health, animals, or the environment, or labeled in a way that misleads the user about the dangers of the biocide.
When labeling biocides, terms like “low-risk biocide product,” “non-toxic,” “harmless,” and similar should not be used.
If you need assistance in creating a label for a biocide product, contact me at nina.pajovic@bens-consulting.eu.
nina.pajovic@bens-consulting.eu
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