When using biocidal products, particularly those intended for disinfection, it is essential to comply with current regulations. This is where "Certibiocide" comes in, a regulatory system guaranteeing the safe and compliant use of biocidal products.
What is Certibiocide?
The Certibiocide certification is mandatory for anyone handling or applying biocidal products intended for professional use. It aims to prevent health and environmental risks associated with the misuse of these products. This certification is part of the process of complying with European and French standards to protect users, consumers, and the environment.
Am I affected by the Certibiocide?
This applies to you if you are a Distributor, Purchaser and/or Decision-maker involved in the following types of biocidal products:
- TP2 : Disinfectants and algaecides not intended for direct application on humans or animals.
- TP3 : Products intended for veterinary hygiene.
- TP4 : Products used on surfaces in contact with food or animal feed.
These products must be intended for strictly professional use, according to the definitions mentioned in the decrees of 09/10/2023 and/or 23/01/2023.
The definitions of the roles involved
Distributor: Any person engaged in the activity of offering for sale, selling, or distributing free of charge biocidal products to users or to natural or legal persons acting on their behalf. This includes wholesalers, retailers, vendors, and suppliers. (Note: the definition of "distributor" in this decree differs from that used in REACH.)
Purchaser: Any person who chooses or orders the purchase of biocidal products.
Decision-maker: Any person exercising a supervisory function for the use of biocidal products.
The three available certificates
The decree of 23/01/2023 provides for training adapted to the type of biocide (TP) concerned. Thus, three certificates can be obtained:
- "Certibiocide Disinfectants": for disinfection products (TP2, TP3, TP4).
- "Certibiocide Nuisibles": for pest control products.
- "Certibiocide Other products": for other specific types of biocides.
The Certibiocide certificate is awarded to an individual upon completion of the training. This certificate, issued by the Ministry in charge of the Environment, is valid for a period of 5 years.
Main obligations of the professionals concerned
Professionals must comply with the following obligations:
1. Obtaining an individual certificate: Every person concerned must undergo training and obtain a valid certificate.
2. Annual declaration: Professionals must declare certified individuals, along with their certificate numbers.
3. Maintaining a sales register:
This must be regularly updated, including:
- The products concerned
- Quantities sold
- The purchasers' certificate number
Date of application of the "Certibiocide"
Application for professionals already covered by the decree of 09/10/2013: from 01/01/2024.
For the new professionals concerned: an additional period of 2 years is granted, with implementation on 01/01/2026.
Method of training for the "Certibiocide"
The training lasts 7 hours and can be completed in person or remotely, depending on the training provider. At the end of the session, a 30-question test is administered, requiring a minimum of 20 correct answers. Failure to complete the test requires a 2-hour supplementary session to obtain the Certibiocide certification.
