In an important step to protect human health and the environment, the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) has ordered a mandatory recall of all products containing the active component ‘chlorthal dimethyl’. This regulation came after the APVMA cancelled the registration of these items on October 9, 2024, due to safety concerns. Today, December 6, 2024, the gazette was published.
The Recall Order
The APVMA has issued an order under Section 101 of the Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals Code Act 1994 requiring firms who supply chlorthal dimethyl products to act immediately. Companies are obligated to:
- Notify Customers: Within 30 days, tell all consumers who own this active substance of the recall.
- Product Recovery and Destruction: Within 60 days, retrieve any remaining product inventories or acquire proof of destruction in compliance with local hazardous waste legislation.
- Stock Disposal: Within 60 days, either destroy any remaining supplies or safely keep them in quarantine until October 8, 2025, when they must be destroyed.
- Report to APVMA: Provide a thorough report to the APVMA within 10 business days after receiving a written request, describing the steps taken to comply with the recall order.
The APVMA recommends consumers and companies with chlorthal dimethyl products to stop using them immediately and follow the advice supplied by the seller or the APVMA. Improper handling or disposal of these compounds can have major consequences for human health and the environment.
