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Module 2: Biocidal Products
Unit 1
Unit 2: The Biocidal Product Label and Safety Data Sheet
Unit 3

What is the Biocidal Product (BP) label


A Biocidal Product Label is ‘a globally harmonized hazard communication tool for workers and consumers worldwide’ (Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 (CLP)). Essential elements of the labels include hazard pictograms, signal words, hazard statements and precautionary statements which form the core information of the GHS (Globally Harmonised System).

Key questions:
What is the BP label?
What are the essential elements of a BP label?

What is the BP Safety Data Sheet (SDS)

What is a Product Safety Data Sheet (SDS) ?

  • An SDS is a document whose purpose and role is to provide comprehensive information about a substance or mixture for use in workplace chemical control regulatory frameworks.
  • It is used as a source of information about hazards, including environmental hazards, and to obtain advice on safety precautions.

Format and content of a Safety Data Sheet
As indicated in the ECHA Guidance on the compilation of safety data sheets (Version 2.1, Feb. 2014)

Legal framework for an SDS
Requirements of:

  • Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 (REACH)
  • Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 (CLP) [via an update to Annex II of REACH since 1 Dec 2010]
Key question:

What is the significance of a Product Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for a BP user?

Interpretation of the BP label and SDS in relation to:

  • BP classification
  • Safety precautions and first-aid measures
  • Restrictions on application

BP classification
There are 9 hazard pictograms of which 5 are relevant for dangerous substances and mixtures (BPs) and 4 may be used for those to which the signal word ‘warning’ has been assigned.

Safety precautions on BP labels
According to Article 22 to Regulation (EC) 1272/2008, a ‘precautionary statement’ means a phrase that describes recommended measure(s) to minimise or prevent adverse effects resulting from exposure to a hazardous substance or mixture due to its use or disposal. Precautionary statements take into account hazard statements and the intended or identified use(s) of the substance or mixture

Label restrictions on application

  • “Restrictions are a tool to protect human health and the environment from unacceptable risks posed by chemicals. Restrictions may limit or ban the manufacture, placing on the market or use of a substance.” echa.europa.eu
  • Restrictions on use or other conditions are proposed by Member States and ECHA on request by the European Commission
  • Those involved in pest control activities should always refer to label for a complete list of restrictions so that the biocide can be used safely and effectively
Key questions:
What are the parameters considered for BP classification?
How are the precautionary statements in a BP label or SDS derived?

Useful links

All images come from the personal archive of Dr. A. Michaelakis (BPI), Prof. Ch. Athanassiou (University of Thessaly) and B. Sotiroudas (SEAME) and the website of the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) [http://phil.cdc.gov/phil/home.asp (free of copyrights)]
This project has been funded with support from the European Commission.
This communication (website) reflects the views only of the author, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein.