ECJ EUROPEAN Cleaning Journal

A.I.S.E. - the pan-European body representing the detergents and maintenance products industry - says recognising ethanol's essential role in infection control and public health is vital for maintaining effective and safe disinfecting practices.

This is in response to news the European Commission is considering reclassifying ethanol as a carcinogenic and reproductive toxicant chemical (CMR) in proposals under the BPR and CLP Regulations. If classified as CMR, ethanol would be banned for use in biocidal products such as hand and surface disinfectants.

"We are very concerned about the impact of a potential ban of ethanol on the EU market and we are calling on the European authorities to recognise the essential role of ethanol. It should remain classified based on its real-world, biocidal use, rather than being inaccurately compared to alcohol consumption," urged A.I.S.E. director general Alexis Van Maercke.

A.I.S.E. says ethanol is the most effective substance to fight a broad spectrum of organisms from bacteria to non-enveloped viruses like polio. It is also the most effective and available disinfectant against healthcare-associated infections and there is no viable alternative it stresses.

The organisation also argues that ethanol is safe for the environment, comes mainly from renewable sources, is fully biodegradable, leaves no residue on surfaces, evaporates quickly.

"A.I.S.E. will continue its efforts to advocate for ethanol to remain classified based on its real-world, biocidal use, rather than being inaccurately compared to alcohol consumption," it concluded.

"We must avoid an unjustified reclassification that does not positively impact citizens and public health, while negatively impacting European industry."

Find out more here: www.aise.eu/ethanol