South Korea Issues Guidelines for Simplified K-BPR Amendment Approval Process

To reduce the submission of redundant data for biocidal products already approved under the K-BPR, the National Institute of Chemical Safety (NICS) in South Korea has issued industry guidelines outlining a simplified application process for approved biocidal products.

The simplified process applies to changes or updates in the following areas:

• Scope of use (types of facilities where the substance/product can be used, such as industrial, residential, or multipurpose facilities);
• User scope (type of users using the substance/product, such as industrial, experts, professionals, and general users); and
• Effectiveness/efficacy.

1. Changes in the scope of use or user range

• Under the simplified process, companies only need to submit approval for changes in the "scope of use" and "user scope" of representative biocidal products;
• Approval related to the biocidal substances in these products is not required; and
• The original approvals regarding use/user scope will not change during the amendment, and reapplication is not necessary.

2. Changes in effectiveness/efficacy

• For some products under the simplified process, only data on the effectiveness/efficacy of representative products needs to be submitted;
• Approval related to the biocidal substances in these products is not required; and
• The original approvals regarding effectiveness/efficacy will not change during the amendment, and reapplication is not necessary.

3. Types of biocidal products applicable under the simplified process

Sterilizing and disinfectant	Daily-use disinfectants
	Algicides
Pest control	Rodenticides
	Products for controlling or inhibiting other vertebrates
	Insecticides
	Products for controlling or inhibiting other invertebrates
	Insect repellent and attractant
Preservatives	Preservatives for product storage
	Preservatives for product surface treatment
	Preservatives for fibers, leather, rubber, and polymeric materials
	Wood preservatives
	Preservatives for building materials and equipment
	Preservatives for processing or cutting fluids
	Preservatives and specimen preparation solutions
Other	Anti-fouling products

The simplified K-BPR amendment approval process officially take effect on September 11, 2024, significantly easing the burden on businesses for updating biocidal products already approved under K-BPR. Additionally, when applying for changes in use/user scope or effectiveness/efficacy, companies must also inform other members of the consortium and downstream customers about the changes, and share the updated information with other consortium members.

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Further Information

K-BPR Compliance Guide