Return to the list
Guyana - Final Regulatory Action
Polybrominated Biphenyls (PBBs) CAS number:
13654-09-6, 27858-07-7, 36355-01-8
Date circular:
12/06/2017

Chemical name: 1,1'-Biphenyl, 2,2',3,3',4,4',5,5',6,6'-decabromo-

Final regulatory action has been taken for the category: Industrial

Final regulatory action: The chemical is Banned

Use or uses prohibited by the final regulatory action:

No known use of the chemical in Guyana prior to the final regulatory action.

Use or uses that remain allowed:

All formulations or preparations and all use prohibited by the final regulatory action.

The final regulatory action was based on a risk or hazard evaluation: Yes

Summary of the final regulatory action:

Pesticides and Toxic Chemicals Control (Prohibited pesticides) Order No.4 of 2015 made under the Pesticides and Toxic Chemicals Control Act 2000 (No 13 of 2000) Prohibits importation, sale and use of Polybrominated Biphenyls (PBBs).

The reasons for the final regulatory action were relevant to: Human health and environment

Summary of known hazards and risks to human health:

Occupational/Use: blood levels up to 85 g/l have been detected in employees.
PBBs accumulate in food chains, evidence exists of chronic toxicity to various species, and because they are embryotoxic and teratogenic. Furthermore the use has been discontinued because of the hazard to human health discovered after accidental use in Michigan in 1973.

Expected effect of the final regulatory action in relation to human health:

The possibility of risks and exposure to this chemical by humans decreased.

Summary of known hazards and risks to the environment:

Persistent in water and soil, degrades in ultraviolet light.
PBBs are readily bioconcentrated in fish (magnification factor: 10,000).

Expected effect of the final regulatory action in relation to the environment:

Reduce exposure to aquatic life, avian life and other animals.

Date of entry into force of the final regulatory action: 02/04/2015