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:

All formulations and uses are prohibited.

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:

HCH was excluded from the list of active substances authorized for use in plant protection products in 1969 under the Law on protection of plants against pests and blights. It has prohibited to production, use and place on the market all plant protection products containing HCH according to annual adopted list of active ingredients banned for use in plant protection products under the ?lant Protection Act since 2003. HCH is designated as a PIC chemical. (Annex I of the Regulation on the import and export of certain dangerous chemicals on the Bulgarian territory). The import and use of the chemical for research or laboratory purposes in quantities less than 10 kg are allowed.

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

Summary of known hazards and risks to human health:

The substance can be absorbed into the body by inhalation of its aerosol, through the skin and by ingestion. Evaporation at 20°C is negligible; a harmful concentration of airborne particles can, however, be reached quickly by dispersion.

Repeated or prolonged contact with skin may cause dermatitis. The substance may have effects on the central nervous system, bone marrow, liver, sex hormones and genital system. This substance is possibly carcinogenic to humans. Animal tests show that this substance possibly causes toxic effects upon human reproduction.

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

Decrease of hazards and risks to human health.

Summary of known hazards and risks to the environment:

The substance is very toxic to aquatic organisms. In the food chain important to humans, bioaccumulation takes place, specifically in aquatic organisms. It is strongly advised not to let the chemical enter into the environment because it persists in the environment. The substance may cause long-term effects in the aquatic environment. Persistent and accumulates in body tissue.

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

To avoid and reduce exposure, hazards and risks of the chemical to the environment.

Date of entry into force of the final regulatory action: 01/04/2003