Import, supply and sale - Getting approval for pesticides and biocides
Before you can import, use, sell, store, supply or advertise pesticides or biocides in Scotland or Northern Ireland, the products must be approved by the relevant authority. Approval depends of the product type and intended use.
Biocidal products
Biocidal products are substances used to control harmful or unwanted organisms through chemical or biological means. These include:
- disinfectants
- insecticides
- fungicides
- preservatives
- other products used for food storage and public hygiene.
Regulatory authority
- In Scotland - HSE (Health and Safety Executive) – Chemicals Regulation Division (CRD)
- In Northern Ireland – DAERA, reporting to the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA)
Plant protection products
Plant protection products (PPP) are substances used to protect plants or plant products from pests and diseases. Thes include:
- insecticides
- fungicides
- molluscicides (snail and slug pellets)
- rodent control
- other products used for agriculture, horticulture, gardening and landscaping, and other amenity and industrial uses.
Regulatory authority
- In Scotland – HSE (Health and Safety Executive) Chemicals Regulation Division (CRD)
- In Northern Ireland - DAERA
Human medicinal products
Human medicinal products are products used on humans, such as:
- Anti head lice treatments
- Certain disinfectants and antiseptics
These are regulated separately to medicines.
Regulatory authority (UK wide)
- UK wide - Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).
MHRA: The approval of human medicinal products
Veterinary medicines
Veterinary medicines are products used on animals, including:
- Flea treatments
- Wormers
- Sheep dips
These are regulated under veterinary medicines laws.
Regulatory authority (UK wide)
· UK wide - Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD).
VMD: regulation of veterinary medicines