Government department lead

HSE, but many departments have an interest including DEFRA, DH, Scottish Executive and the Welsh Assembly.  BERR have a strong interest in the regulatory simplification agenda.

Background

The European Commission is proposing to revise the Biocidal Products Directive (98/8/EC). This directive aims to harmonise the European market for biocidal products/active substances and to provide a high level of protection for humans, animals and the environment. HSE is the UK Competent Authority for Biocides under a 2001 Agency Agreement between HSC (now HSE) and the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions.

The BPD came into force on 14 May 1998. After taking account of the comments received from Member States and Stakeholders, it is expected that the Commission will submit a proposal to the Council and European Parliament by mid-2009 to revise the Directive and replace it with a European Commission Regulation. 

The main revision will be preceded by a ‘mini revision’ which will prolong the review program until the main revision comes into force. This has now been published and more details can be found in the 'Under negotiation' section.

Main provisions

The European Commission is proposing to:

• Simplify the Directive’s procedures and data requirements
• Establish a centralised system for product authorisation;
• Bring treated article/materials under the scope of the Directive;
• Harmonise the fee structure across the Member States.

Next steps

HSE will continue to:

• Influence developments via the EU Competent Authority meetings;
• Keep in touch across government and with stakeholders on developments.