Report toxicovigilance biocides 2023
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At the request of the Biocides Department of the FPS Health, the Poison Centre conducted an analysis of the calls relating to accidental exposures to biocides in Belgium from 2023. Among the 63,726 calls for biocides, the majority of human exposures is due to disinfectants and pest control agents.
- Adults constitute the largest group in the reported biocide exposures (37.4%), followed by children (33.3%) and animals (29.3%).
- Adults are more often exposed to disinfectants (63.1%) than to other types of biocides (pest control agents, preservatives and others). Children are mostly exposed to pest control agents (55.3%) and disinfectants (43.9%). Animals are predominantly exposed to pest control agents (93.6%).
- The routes of exposure vary depending on the age of the victim and the type of biocide. In children, the oral route predominates because of the exploratory behaviour of the youngest children. For adults, exposure routes are more varied and correspond to the form and use of the products, e.g. contact by inhalation when using a spray (such as insecticides). For animals the oral exposure route is most commonly reported.
- The reported symptoms vary depending on the category of biocides and the specific properties of the active substances, with some causing immediate effects, such as chlorine vapours, while others have delayed effects, such as anticoagulents (PT14).
- Since 2021, the number of calls involving disinfectants for human hygiene (PT1) has steadily decreased, without reaching pre-pandemic levels. Conversely, the year 2023 marks the end of the decrease in calls for exposure due to surface disinfectants (PT2).
- The Poison Centre also reports a seasonal increase in cases during summer due to the increased use of products such as swimming pool disinfectants, rodenticides (PT14), insecticides (PT18) and insect repellents and attractants (PT19).
Some exposures can be prevented by properly storing biocides and keeping children and pets away during use. The recommendations of the Poison Centre are therefore used in prevention campaigns such as lireavantutilisation.be (read before use – only available in FR and NL).
Biocidal products are not harmless - it is best to be well informed about precautions and correct use so that you can use them safely and effectively. With these tips, you can already prevent some accidents: keep children away from biocides during and after use, store products out of the reach of children and never transfer a biocide into another container.
In conclusion, this study calls for continued vigilance, a targeted approach in prevention and continued cooperation to ensure the safety and health of the public.
Would you like to know more?
- Summary report toxicovigilance biocides (2023)
- Report toxicovigilance biocides - humans (2023) - only in French and Dutch
- Report toxicovigilance biocides - animals (2023) - only in French and Dutch
- Poison Centre - website in French and Dutch