A consultation on proposed revisions to Annexes II (biocidal active substance) and III (biocidal product) of the GB BPR commenced on 17^th January 2023. 

GB BPR aims to ensure environmental and human health protection by reducing the use of animal testing and revising it in accordance with latest technological developments.

Guidance for GB BPR is similar to (EU) No. 528/2012.

HSE plans to technically upgrade these Annexes:

1. Introduce and put emphasis on In Vitro studies rather than In Vivo studies.
2. Make new tests for endocrine disruptors part of the legal data requirements in GB BPR, rather than only being done on an ad hoc basis.
3. Change mutagenicity requirements to reflect new information.
4. Change requirements in relation to reproductive toxicity and generational studies.
5. Change the requirements to include developmental neurotoxicity studies if certain triggers are met.
6. Change the requirements to include efficacy data to support the innate activity of the active substance for the intended use.

Applicants for biocide can express their opinions in the online survey. Following the conclusion of the consultation, a summary and analysis of the replies will be made public.

The consultation closes at 23:59 London time and lasts for 8 weeks (unless otherwise noted).

Here are the documents for consultation and the comment-submission URL –

https://consultations.hse.gov.uk/crd-biocides/rev-gb-bpr-annexes-ii-and-iii/?utm_source=govdelivery&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=chemicals-guidance&utm_term=consultation&utm_content=biocides-18-jan-23