Comparative Assessment

Biocidal products containing one or more active substances that are candidates for substitution are subject in the Biocidal Products Regulation (BPR) to a comparative assessment being performed as part of the product authorisation evaluation process. An authorisation for biocidal products containing candidates for substitution can be granted (and renewed) for a maximum period of five years.

The comparative assessment seeks to determine if other authorised biocidal products (or non-chemical control or prevention methods) are available, sufficiently effective and present no other significant economic or practical disadvantages. Where such cases are determined the Competent Authority must prohibit or restrict the biocidal product containing the active substances identified as candidates for substitution in order to provide a significantly lower overall risk for human health, animal health and the environment.