The UK has made a significant regulatory move by deciding not to renew the approval for Acrylaldehyde (Acrolein) in biocidal products. This decision, made by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), comes after the applicant withdrew their support under the GB Biocidal Products Regulation (BPR). As a result, the approval expiry date for Acrolein (CAS 107-02-8, EC 203-453-4) in product type 12 has been moved up from 28 February 2026 to 31 January 2024. This change mandates the removal of products containing this substance from the GB market.
Implications for Authorisation Holders
Affected companies with GB BPR product authorisations or Control of Pesticides Regulations (COPR) product approvals will be contacted by the HSE for the cancellation or revocation of their authorisations. These stakeholders will be given a chance to provide feedback or additional information, which will be considered in the final decision-making process. The HSE also seeks input on any significant negative impacts resulting from this non-renewal decision.
HSE Issues Open Invitations for Active Substance Support
Opportunity for Renewal Support
The HSE has issued open invitations for notifications to support the renewal of specific active substances in the GB Review Programme. Notable substances requiring support by 15 February 2025 include Reaction products of 5,5-dimethylhydantoin with chlorine (DCEMH) and with bromine and chlorine (DCDMH) in product type 11. Without notifications of intent to support these substances, they will face non-approval decisions, restricting their use in GB biocidal products and the sale of treated articles.
Upcoming Expiry Dates for Active Substances
The HSE has also highlighted the upcoming expiry dates for the active substances Propiconazole (CAS 60207-90-1, EC 262-104-4) in product type 9 and Carbon dioxide (CAS 124-38-9, EC 262-104-4) in product type 15, both due to expire on 31 May 2025. Following their expiry, the use of these substances in biocidal products will be prohibited, and products treated with them will be barred from the GB market.
These regulatory updates reflect the UK's ongoing efforts to protect public health and the environment by regulating biocidal product use. Stakeholders are encouraged to engage with the HSE, providing feedback on the potential impacts of these decisions and contributing to the regulatory process.
