Overarching cross-cutting topics
Chemicals regulation in Europe is a cross-cutting topic governed by several regulations and laws. The most important instruments include the REACH, CLP, Biocidal Product, and POP Regulation. The various regulations complement each other and may overlap in some areas. Overarching cross-cutting topics, as well as the interface between biocidal products and REACH, CLP, and POP topics are handled by unit 5.9 within the BfC.
IT Tasks
The procedures of chemicals regulation at the BfC are carried out electronically. To ensure data security and efficient data management between federal authorities, federal states, and at EU level, unit 5.9 is working on the further development of appropriate tools for secure data exchange.
Chemical Assessment
Substance identity is a fundamental element of chemicals regulation. The correct identification of a substance is essential for assessing its risks and determining targeted regulatory measures. Unit 5.9 is responsible for assessing substance identity, physicochemical properties, technical characteristics, and physical hazards (biocides only) of substances and mixtures, thus laying the foundation for the activities carried out by the BfC within the REACH, CLP, Biocidal Product, and PIC Regulation.
Process Management Biocidal Products
Biocidal products are divided into four main groups based on their use: disinfectants, preservatives, pest control products, and other biocidal products. The devision of biocidal products into these main groups provides clarity and allows for specific regulation depending on the area of application. At the BfC, there is a specialised unit for each main group responsible for the authorisation of the corresponding biocidal products. Unit 5.9 is responsible for controlling and managing the distribution of applications into these product groups, deals with overarching procedural issues, and conducts the necessary coordination processes with higher federal authorities, the Federal Ministry for the Environment, Climate Action, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety (BMUKN), and stakeholders at the EU level (Member States, ECHA, Commission). Unit 5.9 also designs internal training courses, information events for higher federal authorities, and REACH-CLP-Biozid Helpdesk events on general topics on biocides.