On behalf of the International Association for Soaps, Detergents and Maintenance Products (A.I.S.E.), we express our support for the Swedish Cosmetic and Detergent Association (KoHF) in their opposition to the proposed regulatory changes on corrosive drain cleaning products. We, like KoHF, maintain that such changes contradict the principle of free movement of goods and services within the EU, especially as these products are already compliant with existing EU regulations (REACH and CLP).
We concur with KoHF's assessment that the proposed changes are both excessive and disproportionate, as they would, in effect, prohibit the sale of corrosive drain cleaners, thereby significantly disrupting the market. We urge consideration of alternate regulatory measures before implementing such far-reaching changes.
We share KoHF's concern that the proposal, by addressing misuse and accidents, could potentially pave the way for similar restrictions on other products. The products in question are essential for consumers dealing with blocked drains. Removing these products from the market may result in consumers resorting to unsafe practices, such as creating homemade drain cleaners or purchasing from unregulated sources, thereby increasing the risk of accidents.
In place of an outright ban, A.I.S.E., in line with KoHF, proposes several alternatives. These include enhancing product labelling to better educate consumers on safe usage, modifying in-store product placement to increase consumer awareness, and revising the concentration limits stipulated in the regulations. Finally, we advocate for harmonizing Swedish regulations with EU legislation, a move which should theoretically decrease accident rates to match the lower levels seen elsewhere in the EU.
