Chemical name: Benzene, pentachloronitro-

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:

Al uses are prohibited.

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

Summary of the final regulatory action:

The manufacture, supply, import and use of substances as well as products that contain substances listed under Annex 3.1 Number 3 of the Ordinance relating to Environmentally Hazardous Substances (Ordinance on Substances, Osubst). Articles (textiles and leather goods) which contain substances listed under Number 3, may not be imported as commercial goods.

Annex 3.1 Number 3 includes Quintozen

The reasons for the final regulatory action were relevant to: Environment

Summary of known hazards and risks to the environment:

Quintozene persists in soil with a half-life of approximately 4-10 months. Part of it is lost from the soil by volatilization. Biodegradation, mainly to pentachloroaniline is an important route of conversion.

Photodegradation is not important.

There are indications that quintozene applied at recommended rates as a soil fungicide could produce a significant adverse effect on earthworm survival. There is no evidence that quintozene represents a threat to other organisms tested. Its bioaccumulation in fish is low.

The substance is very toxic to aquatic organisms. Bioaccumulation of this chemical may occur in fish. This substance does enter the environment under normal use. Great care, however, should be given to avoid any additional release, e.g. through inappropriate disposal.

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

It is the objective of the North Sea Conferences: "To aim for a substantial reduction in the quantities of pesticides reaching the North Sea and to this end, by 31 December 1992, to control strictly the use and application of pesticides and to reduce, where necessary, emissions to the environment. Special attention will be paid to:

(i) the phasing out of those pesticides which are the most persistent, toxic and liable to bioaccumulate see part (c) of Annex 1B);

(ii) the establishment of approval systems specifying permitted pesticides and permitted uses".

The ban of Quintozen in Switzerland is intended to reach this objective.

Date of entry into force of the final regulatory action: 28/10/1998