UK Biocidal Products Regulation: Ozone as an In-Situ Generated Biocide

The UK Biocidal Products Regulation (UK BPR) now confirms that ozone, when generated in situ, falls within its regulatory scope. This means that businesses and organisations using ozone as a disinfectant or antimicrobial agent must comply with the same rules that apply to other biocidal products.

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What is a Biocide?

A biocide is a chemical substance, mixture, or microorganism designed to control harmful organisms by chemical or biological means, rather than through purely physical or mechanical methods.

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Common Uses of Biocidal Products

Biocidal products play a crucial role in:

• Protecting people and animals

• Preserving goods and materials

• Controlling pests such as insects or rodents

• Eliminating viruses, bacteria, and fungi

 

Typical examples include disinfectants, wood preservatives, and insect repellents.

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What Makes Up a Biocidal Product?

A biocidal product usually contains a mixture of chemicals, including the active substance, which is the component that directly controls harmful organisms.

 

Biocidal products can also be:

• A single 100% active substance

• Articles treated with an active substance (e.g., disinfectant wipes)

• Living organisms such as bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms

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Biocidal Products Without a Supplied Active Substance

In some cases, the active substance is generated only when the product is used. This can happen through:

• Mixing with another chemical

• Reaction with air or moisture

 

This process is called in-situ generation, and it is still regulated under the UK Biocidal Products Regulation.

For example, an ozone generator creates ozone from oxygen in the air, which is then used as a disinfectant. Even though no chemical product is supplied, the ozone generated counts as a biocidal active substance.

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In-Situ Generation Explained

In-situ generation refers to biocides that are created at the point of use. Instead of being manufactured, transported, or stored, they are formed through a reaction of one or more precursors and applied directly.

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Examples of In-Situ Biocidal Products

• Active bromine generated from mixing sodium bromide and sodium hypochlorite

• Ozone generated from ambient air using an ozone generator

• Active chlorine generated from salt by electrolysis within a device

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Why This Matters for UK Businesses

Since ozone as an in-situ biocide now falls under the UK BPR, companies using ozone for disinfection, water treatment, or sterilisation must ensure compliance with regulatory requirements. This includes proper evaluation, authorisation, and safe use according to UK biocide legislation.

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