Biocidal Products Directive Definitions

The word is also sometimes used as a collective term for substances intentionally developed for use against harmful organisms. In a directive from the European Community (EU Biocidal Products Directive 98/8/EC), we find the following definition ... 

Europe has now introduced the Biocidal Products Directive (BPD), which will become the definitive guideline for approved biocidal substances. Extensive technical and eco-tox support is required to ensure that a supplier s product is put onto an approved list. The onus is on the manufacturer of the biocide to provide this data. BPD became effective in 2000, will be fully enforced by 2005. Any product not fully supported must be withdrawn... 

A first issue arises because the definition of biocidal product in the Directive is very general in scope. That definition is Active substances and preparations containing one or more active substances, put up in the form in which they are supplied to the user, intended to destroy, deter, render harmless, prevent the action of or otherwise exert a controlling effect on any harmful organism by chemical or biological means . 

From these it can be seen that, although the Directive uses the term biocidal , there is no need to kill the organisms, to be within scope. Thus amongst others, repellents and attractants are included. It is also worth noting that the definition of products uses the word intended , thus it is not strictly necessary to claim an effect on a label in order to be within the scope of this Directive. The authorities do, of course, recognise the difficulties of proving intention and some reference on a label will most likely be necessary. 

Non-oxidizing biocides are used on membranes to prevent microbial fouling. By definition, these products will not oxidize polyamide composite membranes and can be used directly on the membranes. There two most common, non-oxidizing biocides used with RO membranes sodium bisulfite and 2,2,dibromo-3-nitrilo-proprionamide or DBNPA. 

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