Safe and sustainable use of biocides

Biocides, i.e. antifouling agents, are used for controlling organisms that are harmful to human and animal health or human activities. They are used in disinfectants, for example. Biocides are toxic not only to the organisms they are intended to control, they can be harmful also to other organisms when released to the environment and pose risks to human and animal health when used. Some biocides can bioaccumulate in the environment or migrate from the soil to water basins.

In the authorisation decision of a biocidal product, the product is approved only for controlling certain organisms in locations where the product can be used effectively and safely. Restrictions on the use of the products aim to prevent unnecessary use of biocides, as well as environmental and health hazards resulting from their use.  

Restrictions have been set on the use of products such as
•    some wood preservatives
•    rodenticides
•    antifouling products for ships and boats.

Approved uses, use restrictions and instructions for safe use can be found from the product packaging and the summary of product characteristics.