Chemical name: Cyclohexane, 1,2,3,4,5,6-hexachloro-

Final regulatory action has been taken for the category: Pesticide

Final regulatory action: The chemical is Banned

Use or uses prohibited by the final regulatory action:

The acquisition, disposal, sale or use of an agricultural and stock remedy which contains HCH as an active ingredient.

Pesticide use or uses that remain allowed:

None.

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

Summary of the final regulatory action:

The acquisition, disposal, sale or use of an agricultural or stock remedy which contains HCH (mixed isomers) was prohibited as from the 30th June 1987.

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

Summary of known hazards and risks to human health:

The Decision Guidance Document on HCH (mixed isomers) notes the following in the section on summary of control actions: HCH (mixed isomers) use has been banned principally because of oncogenic effects detected in animal studies. When considered in combination with its persistence and bioaccumulation potential, the dietary cancer risk was considered unacceptable. In addition, exposures to workers and other persons applying BHC was of concern. Countries also noted persistence and bioaccumulation, high toxicity and environmental effects as reasons for control actions.

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

Reduction of toxic persistent organochlorine substances in the environment as well as prevention of adverse effects on the population of South Africa resulting from the use of HCH (mixed isomers).

Summary of known hazards and risks to the environment:

Decision Guidance Document on HCH (mixed isomers) prepared by the UNEP/FAO for the Secretariat for the Rotterdam Convention on Prior Informed Consent Procedure for Certain hazardous Chemicals and Pesticides in International Trade indicates that the use chemical is persistent and accumulates in body tissue, and it bioaccumulates in adipose tissues of aquatic organisms.

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

The elimination of adverse effects on the population of South Africa resulting from the use of HCH (mixed isomers).

Date of entry into force of the final regulatory action: 30/06/1987