The BPD

Before the entry into force of the Biocidal Products Directive (BPD), biocides were regulated (or not) at the national level and on the other hand, the regulations on agricultural pesticides regulations were harmonized at the EU level (plant protection product directive 91/414/EEC). Only Belgium and Holland had extensive authorization schemes in place for biocides, when for example Germany, France or Italy had very limited schemes for only a few product types.

The biocidal products directive (BPD) was published in 1998 and is the basic act regulating the marketing of biocidal products in the EU and aims to harmonize the European market for biocidal products and their active substances. At the same time it aims to provide a high level of protection for humans and the environment.

The scope of the BPD is very wide, covering 23 different products types in 4 groups:

• Group 1: Disinfectants and general biocides,
• Group 2: Preservatives: biocides for the paints and coatings industries are included here,
• Group 3: Pest control,
• Group 4: Other biocidal products.

In-can preservatives and Film preservatives belong respectively to product-types 6 and 7 of group 2:

• Product-type 6: In-can preservatives
  Products used for the preservation of manufactured products, other than foodstuffs or feeding stuffs, in containers by the control of microbial deterioration to ensure their shelf life.
  

• Product-type 7: Film preservatives
  Products used for the preservation of films or coatings by the control of microbial deterioration in order to protect the initial properties of the surface of materials or objects such as paints, plastics, sealants, wall adhesives, binders, papers, art works.

Biocidal Products Directive’s transition period, 2000-2010:

Biocidal Products Directive Timeline