GB PIC enforcement: Authorities and activities
Finding the right enforcing authority
The law that regulates the import and export of hazardous chemicals in Great Britain (GB) – the GB Prior Informed Consent Regulation (GB PIC) – is enforced by HSE.
HSE may also work with other authorities, including:
- UK Border Force – to detain goods on import
- HM Revenue and Customs – to access documentation and information relating to imports and exports
Enforcement laws
The responsibilities of the enforcing authorities come from general health and safety law working in combination with more specific enforcement law for GB PIC.
General health and safety law
GB PIC specific law
- Biocidal Products and Chemicals (Appointment of Authorities and Enforcement) Regulations 2013 (BPC Regs) – originally written in the context of the UK as part of the EU
- Chemicals (Health and Safety) and Genetically Modified Organisms (Contained Use) Amendment etc) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019 (CMGO Regs 2019) – amends the BPC Regs in the context of the UK not as part of the EU
- Chemicals (Health and Safety) and Genetically Modified Organisms (Contained Use) (Amendment etc.) (EU Exit) Regulations 2020 (CGMO Regs 2020) – amends the CGMO Regs 2019 in the context of the Northern Ireland Protocol and a GB only regime
These laws also define a number of offences and the powers that the enforcing authorities may use.