re p r e s e n t i n g the pl a n t sc i e n c e in d u s

Guide for Industry

Re p r e s e n t i n g the Pl a n t Sc i e n c e In d u s t r y

Guide for Industry

Guide for Industry on the Implementation

of the FAO Code of Conduct

on the Distribution and Use of Pesticides

(revised version)

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Table of Contents

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Article 1: Objective of the code . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Article 2: Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Article 3: Pesticide Management . . . . . . . . . . 9

Article 4: Testing of Pesticides . . . . . . . . . . 11

Article 5: Reducing Health and EnvironmentalRisks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Article 6: Regulatory and Technical Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Article 7: Availability and Use . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Article 8: Distribution and Trade . . . . . . . . . 17

Article 9: Information Exchange . . . . . . . . . . 18

Article 10: Labelling, Packaging, Storage and Disposal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Article 11: Advertising . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Article 12: Monitoring and Observance of the Code . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Checklists . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

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Guide for Industry on the Implementation of the FAO Code of Conduct on the Distribution and Use of Pesticides

INTRODUCTION

The Food and Agriculture Organization ofthe United Nations (FAO), in cooperationwith the plant science industry and otherinternational organisations, including NGOs,developed a voluntary code of conduct,The International Code of Conduct on theDistribution and Use of Pesticides,to provide a standard for pesticide activitiesuntil countries have developed adequatenational regulatory infrastructures for pesticides. The original FAO Code waspublished in 1985, and updated in 1989 to include the Prior Informed Consent procedure.

With the adoption of the RotterdamConvention on the Prior Informed Consentprocedure in 1998, changes in other areasof international policy, and in view of continuing challenges in the management ofpesticides in developing countries, a revisionof the FAO Code was developed, which wasapproved by the FAO Council in November2002. In this revised Code, the provision for theprotection of proprietary data has beendeleted. However, this does not alter theindustry position that proprietary rightsshould be protected and CropLife will continue to pursue data protection in otherappropriate forums.

CropLife International has indicated to FAOthe willingness of its members to abide bythe provisions of this new revised version.Just as with the original Code, it is importantthat the spirit as well as the letter of therevised Code be observed. Management hasa clear responsibility to initiate appropriateactions to ensure that the Code is being followed within its own company.

The Code as published by FAO is lengthyand detailed, because it attempts to discussthe responsibilities of all stakeholders involved in the distribution and use of pesticides. This leaflet, prepared byCropLife International, is a summary of theresponsibilities advocated by FAO and theirimplications for the industry.The format of the original Code, consistingof 12 articles, has been maintained in thenew revision. Each article is summarised inthe leaflet, and the most important responsibilities and actions for industry arehighlighted.

Those involved in the production,formulation and packaging of crop protection products should note especiallyArticles 4, 5 and 6. Marketing, Distributionand Sales interests are addressed in Articles5, 8 and 11; while, Registration, ProductDevelopment and Technical Service activities are covered in Articles 4, 5, 8 and10. Colour-coded checklists summarising the responsibilities for these operational segments of the industry, in addition to the separate responsibilities of traders andformulators, can be found in the second partof the booklet.

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ARTICLE 1Objectives of the code

The objectives of the Code are to establishvoluntary standards of conduct to be shared by all stakeholders connected withthe distribution and use of pesticides,particularly where existing controls areinadequate. The Code addresses the needfor a cooperative effort between governments of exporting and importingcountries, as well as other stakeholders,to provide training and promote practiceswhich ensure safe and effective use,including the promotion of IPM. One of thebasic functions of the Code is to serve as apoint of reference for countries until theyhave established their own national regulatory infrastructures. The Code alsoinvites stakeholders to participate in severalinternational agreements, including theRotterdam Convention on Prior InformedConsent.

Industry has a responsibility to ensure that:

• Trade practices are responsible and generally accepted

• Training at all appropriate levels is given ahigh priority.

• Safe handling and effective use of pesticides are promoted.

• All major aspects related to the development, regulation, management,packaging, labelling, distribution, handling,application, use and control of pesticides,including post-registration activities anddisposal of pesticides and used containers,are adopted.

• IPM, including integrated vector management for public health pests, is promoted.

• Members appropriately participate in information exchange and internationalagreements, especially the RotterdamConvention on Prior Informed Consent.

ARTICLE 2Definitions

Specific terms used in the Code are defined.For the most part, the definitions will be familiar to those who work with pesticides.However, there are some for which the definitions given are worthy of special note:

• ADVERTISING - means the promotion ofthe sale and use of pesticides by printedand electronic media, signs, displays, gift,demonstration or word of mouth.

• BANNED PESTICIDE - means a pesticidefor which all uses have been prohibited byfinal regulatory action, in order to protecthuman health or the environment. The termincludes a pesticide that has been refusedapproval for first-time use, or has beenwithdrawn by industry, either from t h edomestic market of from further consideration in the domestic approvalprocess, and where there is clear evidencethat such action has been taken in order toprotect human health or the environment.

• EQUIVALENCE - means the determinationof the similarity of the impurity and toxicological profile, as well as of the physical and chemical properties, p r e s e n t e dby supposedly similar technical material originating from different manufacturers,in order to assess whether they presentsimilar levels of risk.

• GOOD AGRICULTURAL PRACTICE - inthe use of pesticides, includes the officiallyrecommended or nationally authorised uses of pesticides under actual conditionsnecessary for effective and reliable pestcontrol. It encompasses a range of levelsof pesticide applications up to the highestauthorised use, applied in a manner whichleaves a residue which is the smallestamount practicable.

• HAZARD - means the inherent property ofa substance, agent or situation having thepotential to cause undesirable consequences (e.g. properties that cancause adverse effects or damage tohealth, the environment or property).

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• INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT(IPM) - means the careful consideration ofall available pest control techniques andsubsequent integration of appropriate measures that discourage the developmentof pest populations and keep pesticidesand other interventions to levels that areeconomically justified and reduce or minimise risks to human health and thee n v i r o n m e n t . IPM emphasises the growthof a healthy crop with the least possible disruption of agro-ecosystems and encourages natural pest control mechanisms.

• PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT -means any clothes, materials or devicesthat provide protection from pesticideexposure during handling and application.In the context of this Code, it includes bothspecifically designed protective equipmentand clothing reserved for pesticide application and handling.

• PRODUCT STEWARDSHIP - means theresponsible and ethical management of apesticide product from its discoverythrough to its ultimate use and beyond.

• SEVERELY RESTRICTED PESTICIDE -means a pesticide for which virtually all usehas been prohibited by final regulatoryaction in order to protect human health orthe environment, but for which certain specific uses remain allowed. It includes apesticide that has, for virtually all use, beenrefused for approval or been withdrawn by industry either from the domestic market or from further consideration in the domestic approval process, and wherethere is clear evidence that such actionhas been taken in order to protect humanhealth or the environment.

• TENDER - means request for bids in purchasing of pesticides.

• TOXICITY – means a physiological or biological property which determines thecapacity of a chemical to do harm or produce injury to a living organism by otherthan mechanical means.

ARTICLE 3Pesticide Management

Governments have the overall responsibilityto regulate the availability, distribution anduse of pesticides in their countries, andshould allocate adequate resources for thismandate. Governments of pesticide exporting countries should assist importingcountries by ensuring that technical assistance is provided and good tradingpractices are followed. Pesticide industryand traders should adhere to the provisionsof this Code as a standard for the manufacture, distribution and advertising ofpesticides, particularly in countries lackingappropriate legislation and advisory services.Pesticides requiring the use of personal protective equipment that is uncomfortable,expensive, or is not readily available shouldbe avoided, especially in tropical climates.All stakeholders should proactively developand promote IPM; and, governments, withindustry and other organisations, shoulddevelop and promote resistance management strategies to prolong the useful life of valuable pesticides.Governments and the application industryshould develop and promote the use of pesticide application methods and equipment that pose low risks to humanhealth and the environment, and conductpractical training in the use of such activities.


• The provisions of the Code are a standardfor the manufacture, distribution andadvertising of pesticides.

• Only pesticides of adequate quality arepackaged and appropriately labelled foreach specific market.

• The provisions of the FAO guidelines ontender procedures are followed.

ARTICLE 4Testing of Pesticides

Pesticides must be adequately and effectively tested in accordance with soundscientific procedures to evaluate their efficacy, behaviour and fate in the environment, and the hazard and risk associated with anticipated conditions invarious countries of use. Reports of suchtests should be made available for assessment by responsible governmentauthorities. Each country should be able tocontrol the quality of pesticides offered forsale or export, and to determine the suitability of their formulations according to FAO and WHO specifications.International organisations should assist inthe establishment of analytical laboratoriesin importing countries, and, with exportinggovernments, assist in training developingcountry personnel in the interpretation andevaluation of data and risk/benefit analysis.


• Pesticides are thoroughly tested, usingsound scientific procedures and the principles of good laboratory practice, forefficacy, fate and behaviour in the environment, and safety under conditionsof use.

• Original reports or summaries of the testsconducted are provided for assessment by government authorities in the countriesof intended use.

• The intended use pattern for the products,as well as label claims and directions,packages, technical literature, and advertising accurately reflect the results ofthe tests and assessments.

• Necessary analytical standards, as well asadvice and assistance in training technical analytical staff, are provided to governments upon request.

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• The risk to users and the environment isreduced as a result of the choice of formulation and its presentation, packagingand labelling.

• Each package of pesticide is provided withinformation and instructions in a form andlanguage to ensure safe and effective use.

• Technical support, backed up by productstewardship, is provided to field level,including advice on disposal of pesticidesand used pesticide containers.

• Major uses and problems occurring fromuse are tracked to determine the need forchanges in labelling, directions for use,packaging and formulation.

• Use of pesticides is avoided if handlingand application require the use of personalprotective equipment that is uncomfortable, expensive, or is not readilyavailable.

• All stakeholders, with governments,proactively develop and promote IPM;and strategies are developed to prolongthe useful life of valuable pesticides.

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ARTICLE 5Reducing Health andEnvironmental Risks

Governments have the responsibility toregister pesticides; periodically review theacceptability and availability of pesticidesmarketed in their country; determine the extent of occupational exposure to pesticides and investigate poisoning inci-dents; and, establish poison control centersto provide guidance on first aid and medicaltreatment. Governments should maintain statistical data on pesticide poisoning and onresidues in food and the environment utilising suitably trained personnel with adequate resources. Pesticides should besegregated from foodstuffs in stores andclearly marked as hazardous materials.Poison control centres and doctors shouldbe provided with information on treatmentof pesticide poisoning. Production facilities in developing countries should have appropriateengineering standards and operating procedures, as well as protective equipmentavailable for workers. Manufacturing andformulating plants should be properly located in order that wastes and effluentscan be adequately controlled. Partiesconcerned with the Code should disseminateresponsible information on pesticides andtheir uses in order to avoid unjustified publicconfusion and alarm.


• Poison control centres and doctors areprovided with information about pesticidehazards and suitable treatment of pesticide poisoning.

• Less toxic formulations are developed andproducts are provided in ready-to-use packages when it is reasonable to do so.

• Returnable and refillable containers areused where container collection systemshave been established.

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• Residue trials are conducted prior to marketing in order to establish maximum residue limits.

• Surveillance or monitoring studies areconducted after registration to determinethe fate of pesticides and their health andenvironmental effects under field conditions.

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ARTICLE 6Regulatory and TechnicalRequirements

Governments should introduce legislationand enforce the regulation of pesticides, aswell as establish appropriate infrastructuresto register products, utilising risk evaluationand risk management decisions, prior todomestic use. The equivalence of pesticidesshould be determined according to the principles established by FAO and WHO.Re-registration procedures should be established to periodically review existingpesticides. Data should be collected on pesticide import, export, manufacture,formulation, quality and quantity.


• An objective data assessment is providedfor each product, with the necessary supporting data, to facilitate risk assessment and allow a risk managementdecision to be made.

• Any new or updated information that couldchange the regulatory status of a pesticideis provided to national regulatory authorities as soon as it becomes available.

• Active ingredients and other ingredients inpesticides being marketed correspond tothe substances tested, evaluated and cleared for toxicological and environmentalacceptability.

• Active ingredients and formulated products conform to relevant FAO or WHOspecifications.

• The quality and purity of pesticides offered for sale is verified.

• Corrective action is taken when problemsoccur.

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• Containers are not used that may beattractive for re-use or that can be readilyopened by children.

• Clear and concise labels are used.• Sale is halted and products are recalled

when their handling or use requires anunacceptable degree of risk under any usedirections or conditions.

• Proper and affordable personal protectiveequipment is promoted.

• They cooperate with governments to establish services to collect and safelydispose of used containers and smallquantities of left-over pesticides.

• Production facilities in developing countriesadopt engineering standards and operatingpractices appropriate to the nature of themanufacturing operation and associatedhazards; ensure the availability of appropriate protective equipment; take allnecessary precautions to protects worker,bystanders and the surrounding community; and adequately control wastes and effluents.

• Products manufactured comply with relevant standards of purity, performance,stability and safety.

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ARTICLE 8Distribution and Trade

Distributors should be capable of providingbuyers with sound advice on effective product use and ways to reduce potentialrisk. Repackaging or decanting pesticidesinto food or beverage containers should beprohibited and violations rigidly enforced.Government purchases should be based onFAO tender procedures in order to reducethe accumulation of excessive stocks.


• Pesticides entering international tradeconform to relevant FAO or WHO specifications; comply with the principles inthe relevant FAO guidelines on classification, packaging and labelling; and,follow international rules and regulations ontransport of dangerous goods.

• Pesticides manufactured for export meetthe same quality requirements and standards of comparable domestic products.

• Pesticides manufactured or formulated bya subsidiary company meet quality standards of the host country and of theparent company.

• Importing agencies, national or regional formulators and the respective trade organisations cooperate to achieve fairmarketing and distribution practices, andassist in the elimination of malpracticewithin the industry.

• Persons involved in the sale of pesticidesare adequately trained and hold appropriate licenses.

• A range of pack sizes and types is provided to meet the needs of small-scaleusers and local farmers.

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ARTICLE 7Availability and Use

Each government should determine its ownrules and regulations on availability of pesticides, compatible with national circumstances and levels of user trainingand expertise. Where appropriate,governments should use the WHO classification of pesticides by hazard as the basis for their classification for regulatory purposes, together with well-recognised hazard symbols.The availability of a product may be restricted to certain groups as a result ofthe assessment of the hazards involved inthe use of the product. Prohibition of import,sale and purchase of highly toxic and hazardous products may be desirable in certain situations.


• Pesticides are not offered for sale unlessthey are suitable for the situations in whichthey are distributed and used.

• Pesticides are packaged and labelled in amanner consistent with FAO guidelines andnational regulations.

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ARTICLE 10Labelling, Packaging, Storageand Disposal

All pesticide containers should be clearly labelled in accordance with applicableguidelines, such as those of the FAO.In international trade, the appropriate WHOhazard classification, or the hazard classification required by national dangerousgoods labeling regulations, should be shownon the label, if applicable. Packaging, storageand disposal should conform to relevantFAO, UNEP, WHO or other applicable international guidelines. Governments, withthe assistance and cooperation of other stakeholders, should inventory obsoletestocks of pesticides, dispose of such stocksin an environmentally sound manner, a n dimplement policies to prevent the accumulation of obsolete stocks in the future.


• Label recommendations are consistentwith those of recognised research andadvisory agencies in the country of use.

• Appropriate symbols and pictograms areincluded on the label, in addition to writteninstructions, warnings and precautions.

• A warning against the re-use of containersand instructions for the safe disposal anddecontamination of containers are includedon the label in the appropriate national language.

• Products are identified by easily understood batch references.

• Labels show the release date of the formulation and relevant information onstorage stability.

• Packaging and repackaging are carried outonly on licensed premises where the staffis adequately protected against exposureto hazardous substances.

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ARTICLE 9Information Exchange

Governments should promote the establishment or strengthening of informationexchange networks, and facilitate theexchange of information between regulatory authorities. Governments areencouraged to provide information to thepublic, provide transparency, and facilitatepublic participation in the regulatory process.All parties should encourage cooperationbetween stakeholders to ensure countriesare provided with the information they needto meet the objectives of the Code.

Prior Informed Consent is now covered bythe Rotterdam Convention on the PriorInformed Consent Procedure, and, therefore,is no longer included in this Article of theCode.


• Information on residues in food is readilyavailable.

• Cooperate in the information exchangeprocess as necessary to assist all partiesto meet the objectives of the Code.

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• Claims such as “safe,” “non-poisonous,”“harmless,” “non-toxic,” and “compatiblewith IPM” are not used without a qualifyingphrase, such as “when used as directed.”

• Statements are not made comparing therisk, hazard or safety of different pesticides or other substances.

• No guarantees, such as increased profitsor higher yields, are stated unless definiteevidence to substantiate the claims is available.

• Advertisements do not contain any visualrepresentation of potentially dangerouspractices.

• Advertising and promotional literature drawattention to appropriate warning phrasesand symbols.

• Technical literature provides adequateinformation on recommended applicationrates, frequency of applications and pre-harvest intervals.

• False or misleading comparisons with otherpesticides are not made.

• Staff involved in sales promotion is ade-quately trained to present complete,accurate and valid information on the products sold.

• Advertisements and promotional activitiesdo not include inappropriate incentives orgifts to encourage the purchase of pesticides.

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ARTICLE 11Advertising

Advertising of pesticides in all media mustbe consistent with label directions and precautions, especially in reference to proper maintenance of application equipment, use of personal protective equipment, special precautions for childrenand pregnant women, and dangers of re-using containers.


• All statements used in advertising are technically justified.

• Advertisements do not contain any statement or visual presentation whichcould mislead the buyer as to the safety ofthe product, its composition or suitabilityfor use, or the status of its registration orapproval.

• Pesticides restricted to use by trained orregistered/licensed operators are advertised only in journals catering to suchoperators, unless the restricted availabilityis clearly and prominently shown.

• No company or individual in a countryadvertises and/or markets, at the sametime, different pesticide active ingredientsor combinations of ingredients under thesame brand name.

• Advertising encourages purchasers andusers to read the label, and promotes onlythose uses which are on the approvedlabel.

• Promotional material includes recommendations consistent with those ofrecognised research and advisory agencies.

• Advertisements do not misuse researchresults, quotations from technical andscientific literature, or jargon to makeclaims appear to have a scientific basiswhich they do not possess.

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ARTICLE 12Monitoring and Observance ofthe Code

The Code should be brought to the attentionof all stakeholders associated with the distribution and use of pesticides.Stakeholders should observe the Code andthe principles and ethics expressed in theCode, regardless of the ability of other parties to do so. Independently of any measure in the Code, all legal rules dealingwith liability, consumer protection,conservation, pollution control and other related subjects should be strictly followed.Governments are encouraged to observethe provisions of international instruments towhich they are a party, and to join, ratify oraccede to such instruments if relevant and ifthey have not already done so.Governments should monitor the observanceof the Code. Industry is invited to providereports on its product stewardship activities.The Code should be considered a dynamictext, which must be brought up to date asrequired to reflect technical, economic andsocial progress.


• The Code is observed and the principlesand ethics presented in the Code are promoted.

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Checklists

for Advertising . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

for Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

for Product Safety and Registration/product Development/Te c h n i c a lServices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

for Production/Formulation/Packaging . 34

for Traders and Formulators . . . . . . . . 38

for Marketing/Distribution/Sales . . . . . .40

❒ 11.2.7. Advertisements do not misuseresearch results, quotations fromtechnical and scientific literature,or jargon to give claims the falseappearance of having ascientific basis.

❒ 11.2.10. Misleading statements are notmade concerning the effectiveness of the product.

❒ 11.2.11. Guarantees, such as increasedprofits and higher yields, are notused unless definite evidence isavailable to substantiate suchclaims.

❒ 11.2.14. Technical literature providesappropriate information on recommended application rates,frequency of applications, andpre-harvest intervals.

❒ 11.2.15. False or misleading comparisonswith other pesticides are notmade.

Safety Aspects


❒ 11.2.3. Pesticides which are restrictedto use by trained or registered operators are advertised onlythrough journals specificallycatering to such operators;otherwise, the restricted availability of the product isclearly shown.

❒ 11.2.8. Claims of “safe,”“non-poisonous,” “harmless,”“non-toxic,” or “compatible withIPM” are not made without aqualifying phrase, such as “whenused as directed.”

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Checklist for Advertising

Article 11 of the Code lists industry’sobligations relating to advertising of pesticides. These are divided in the checklistbelow into Product Information, SafetyAspects, and Education and Training elements.

Advertising is defined in the Code as “thepromotion of the sale and use of p e s t i c i d e sby printed and electronic media, s i g n s,d i s p l a y s, g i f t s, d e m o n s t r a t i o n s or word ofmouth.” The Code’s obligations, therefore,apply to promotional activities of all kinds.

Articlereference

Product Information


❒ 11.2.1 All statements used in advertising are technically justified.

❒ 11.2.2. Advertisements do not containany statement or visual presentation which may misleadthe buyer regarding the safetyof the product, its suitability foruse, or the status of its registration or approval.

❒ 11.2.4. Pesticides containing differentactive ingredients or combinations of ingredients arenot marketed under a singlebrand name.

❒ 11.2.5. Advertising does not encourageunapproved uses.

❒ 11.2.6. Recommendations in promotionalmaterial are consistent withthose of recognised researchand advisory agencies.

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❒ 11.2.9. Statements are not made comparing the risk, hazard or“safety” of different pesticides.

❒ 11.2.12. Advertisements do not containany visual representation of potentially dangerous practices.

❒ 11.2.18. Advertisements and promotionalactivities do not include inappropriate incentives or giftsto encourage the purchase of pesticides.

Education and Training


❒ 11.2.13. Advertising and promotional literature draws attention to theappropriate warning phrases andsymbols.

❒ 11.2.16. Staff involved in sales promotionare adequately trained to provide complete, accurate andvalid information on the productssold.

❒ 11.2.17. Advertisements encourage purchasers and users to readthe label carefully, or to have thelabel read to them if they cannotread.

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❒ 3.5. The use of pesticides is avoidedif they require personal protective equipment which isuncomfortable, expensive or notreadily available.

❒ 3.6. Educational materials are disseminated to pesticide users,farmers, farmers’ organisations,agricultural workers, unions andother interested parties.

❒ 3.8. IPM is proactively developedand promoted.

❒ 3.11. Resistance management strategies are developed andpromoted in order to prolong theuseful life of valuable pesticidesand to reduce the developmentof resistance of pests to pesticides.

❒ 5.2.4. Sale is halted and productsrecalled when handling or usepose an unacceptable risk underany use directions or restrictions.

❒ 10.5. Assistance is provided to ❒ 10.6. inventory obsolete stocks of ❒ 10.7. pesticides and unused

containers; to develop an actionplan for their disposal;to dispose of obsolete pesticides; and, to prevent the accumulation of obsolete pesticides and used containersin the future.

❒ 12.8. Reports on product stewardshipactivities related to observanceof the Code are provided to the Director-General of FAO.

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Checklist for Management

Articlereference


❒ 1.6. Training activities related to theCode are given a high priority.

❒ 3.2. The code should be adhered toas a standard for the manufacture, distribution andadvertising of pesticides.

❒ 3.4.1. Only pesticides of adequatequality are supplied, and arepackaged and labelled as appropriate for each specificmarket.

❒ 3.4.2. Provisions of FAO guidelines ontender procedures are adheredto, in close cooperation with procurers of pesticides.

❒ 3.4.3. Risks to users and adverseeffects to the environment arereduced by the choice of pesticide formulations and thepresentation, packaging andlabelling.

❒ 3.4.4. Each pesticide package providesinformation and instructions in aform and language to ensureeffective use and reduce risksduring handling.

❒ 3.4.5. Effective technical support isprovided, including advice ondisposal of pesticides and usedpesticide containers.

❒ 3.4.6. Their products are followed tothe end-user, and occurrence ofany problems arising from theuse of their products is recorded.

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❒ 4.5. Post-registration surveillance ormonitoring studies are conducted in collaboration withgovernments to determine thefate of pesticides and theirhealth and environmental effectsunder field conditions.

❒ 5.2.1. Appropriate information is provided for the periodic reassessment of pesticides.

❒ 5.2.2. Poison control centers and medical personnel are providedwith information on pesticidehazards and suitable treatmentof pesticide poisoning.

❒ 5.2.3.4. Returnable and refillable containers are used wherecontainer collection systems arein place.

❒ 5.2.3.7. Clear and concise labelling isused.

❒ 5.2.4. Sale of products is halted andproducts are recalled whenhandling or use pose an unacceptable risk under any usedirections or restrictions.

❒ 5.3.1. The use of proper and affordable personal protectiveequipment is promoted, incooperation with governments.

❒ 5.3.2. Safe storage of pesticides isprovided for at both warehouseand farm level.

❒ 5.3.3. Services to collect and safelydispose of used containers are established, in cooperation withgovernments.

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Checklist for Product Safety and Registration/ProductDevelopment/Technical Service

Articlereference


❒ 4.1.1. Each pesticide is adequately andeffectively tested to fully evaluate efficacy, behaviour,fate, hazard and risk under anticipated conditions of use.

❒ 4.1.2. Tests are conducted in accordance with sound scientificprocedures and the principles ofgood laboratory practice.

❒ 4.1.3. Copies or summaries of originalreports of tests are made available for assessment byresponsible government authorities in the countrieswhere the product is to be sold.

❒ 4.1.4. Proposed use pattern, labelclaims and directions, packages,technical literature and advertising reflect the outcomeof the scientific tests andassessments.

❒ 4.1.5. Methods of analysis and necessary analytical standardsare provided to governments attheir request.

❒ 4.1.6. Advice and training assistance isprovided to technical staff involved in relevant analyticalwork.

❒ 4.1.7. Residue trials are conductedprior to marketing, in order toestablish appropriate maximumresidue limits.

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❒ 10.2.1. Registration requirements arecomplied with and use recommendations are consistentwith those of national researchand advisory agencies.

❒ 10.2.2. Appropriate symbols and pictograms are used wheneverpossible, in addition to writteninstructions, precautions andwarnings in the appropriate language.

❒ 10.2.3. Products in international tradecomply with national or international labelling requirements, and, if appropriate, clearly show theappropriate WHO hazard classification.

❒ 10.2.4. Warnings against re-use of containers and instructions forsafe disposal or decontaminationare included in the appropriate language.

❒ 10.5. Assistance is provided to❒ 10.6. inventory obsolete stocks of❒ 10.7. pesticides and unused

containers; to develop an actionplan for their disposal;to dispose of obsolete pesticides; and, to prevent the accumulation of obsolete pesticides and used containersin the future.

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❒ 6.1.2. Pesticides cannot be made available until they have beenregistered.

❒ 6.2.1. An objective assessment of thedata for the pesticide should beprovided, in order to allow a riskmanagement decision to bemade.

❒ 6.2.2. National regulatory authoritiesare provided with new or updated information which couldchange the regulatory status ofthe pesticide.

❒ 6.2.3. The active ingredient and otheringredients in pesticide productsmarketed correspond to theingredients evaluated for toxicological and environmentalacceptability.

❒ 6.2.6. Corrective action is taken voluntarily when problems occur,and help is given to governmentsto find solutions to difficulties.

❒ 6.2.7. Available data on export, import,manufacture, formulation, sales,quality and quantity of pesticides is provided to nationalgovernments upon request.

❒ 9.4.1. Information on pesticide residuesin food is provided.

❒ 10.1. All pesticide containers are clearly labelled in accordancewith applicable guidelines.

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❒ 6.2.3. Active ingredients and otheringredients of pesticides marketed correspond with thecomposition of substancesacceptable in toxicological andenvironmental tests.

❒ 6.2.4. Active ingredients and formulations, for which international specifications havebeen developed, conform torelevant FAO and WHO specifications.

❒ 6.2.5. The quality and purity of pesticides offered for sale isverified.

❒ 6.2.6. Corrective action is taken voluntarily when problems occur,and help is given to governmentsto find solutions to difficulties.

❒ 6.2.7. Available data on export, import,manufacture, formulation, sales,quality and quantity of pesticides is provided to nationalgovernments upon request.

❒ 8.2.1.1. Pesticides entering international❒ 8.2.1.2. trade conform to relevant FAO,❒ 8.2.1.3. WHO or equivalent

specifications, where such specifications have been developed; to relevant FAO guidelines on classification,packaging and labelling; and,to rules and regulations ofUNCTDG and international organis‹ations concerned withspecific modes of transport.

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Checklist forP r o d u c t i o n / Fo r m u l a t i o n / P a c k a g i n g

Articlereference


❒ 4.1.5. Methods for the analysis of active ingredients and formulations, and necessary analytical standards, are provided when requested by a government.

❒ 4.1.6. Advice and assistance in thetraining of analytical staff is provided.

❒ 5.2.3.1. Less toxic formulations aremade available.

❒ 5.2.3.2. Ready-to-use packages are usedwhenever possible.

❒ 5.2.3.3. Containers attractive for re-useare not used and programs to discourage re-use are promotedwhere container collection systems are in place.

❒ 5.5.1. Engineering standards and operating practices for production facilities in developingcountries are of a suitable standard for the nature of themanufacturing operation.

❒ 5.5.2. All precautions to protect workers, bystanders,surrounding communities and theenvironment are taken whenestablishing production facilitiesin developing countries.

❒ 5.5.3. Manufacturing and formulationsplants are properly sited andwastes and effluents are adequately controlled.

❒ 5.5.4. Relevant standards of purity,performance, stability and safety are complied with.

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❒ 8.2.2. Pesticides manufactured forexport of the same quality asthose of comparable domesticproducts.

❒ 8.2.3. Pesticides manufactured or formulated by a subsidiary meetquality standards of the hostcountry and of the parent company.

❒ 8.2.8. A range of pack sizes and typesis provided to meet the needs ofsmall-scale farmers and otherlocal users.

❒ 10.2.5. Each lot or batch of a product isidentified with easily understoodnumbers or letters.

❒ 10.2.6. Labels clearly show the releasedate of the lot or batch and relevant information on storagestability.

❒ 10.3.1. Packaging, storage and disposalof pesticides conform to FAO,UNEP or WHO guidelines or toother applicable international guidelines.

❒ 10.3.2. Packaging and repackaging areconducted only on licensed premises, where the staff is adequately protected againsttoxic hazards.

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❒ 3.4.4. Each pesticide package is provided with information andinstructions in the appropriatelanguage to ensure safe andeffective use.

❒ 3.4.5. Products are followed to theend-user, and any problems arising from the use of their products are recorded.

❒ 5.2.4. Sale is halted and products arerecalled when handling or useposes an unacceptable riskunder any use directions or restrictions.

❒ 6.1.2. Each pesticide product is registered before it can be madeavailable for use.

❒ 8.2.4. Fair marketing and distributionpractices are followed, andassistance is provided to governments to eliminate malpractice within the industry.

❒ 8.2.6. Pesticides are traded by reputable traders, who shouldpreferably be members of arecognised trade association.

❒ 8.2.7. Persons involved in the sale ofpesticides hold appropriate government licenses and areadequately trained to provide customers with appropriate advice on safe and effectiveuse.

❒ 10.2.3. WHO hazard classification or,national labelling requirements regarding hazard classification ofcontents, are followed for products in international trade.

In addition, refer to the Checklist forAdvertising and the industry responsibilitieslisted.

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Checklist for Traders andFormulators

It is very important that the spirit, as well asthe letter, of the FAO Code of C o n d u c t , b eobserved by traders and formulators.Industry should, t h e r e f o r e, initiate appropriateactions to ensure that the Code is being followed by traders and formulators whoobtain products and materials from manu-facturers.Although these trader and formulator customers should be requested to study thecomplete Code, CropLife has attempted tosummarise those measures which are particularly applicable to their segment ofthe industry.

Traders and Formulators have a responsibility to ensure that:

Articlereference

❒ 1.6. Training activities related tothose articles of the Code specifically referring to traderand formulator operations aregiven a high priority.

❒ 3.2. The Code is adhered to as astandard for the manufacture,distribution and advertising ofpesticides.

❒ 3.4.1. Only pesticides of adequatequality, which are packaged andlabelled appropriately, are supplied.

❒ 3.4.2. The FAO guidelines on tenderprocedures are followed.

❒ 3.4.3. Special attention is given to thechoice of formulation, and to itspresentation, packaging andlabelling, in order to reduce risksto the user and to the environment.

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Checklist forMarketing/Distribution/Sales

Articlereference


❒ 3.4.2. FAO guidelines on tender procedures are followed.

❒ 5.1.8. The dangers of storing foodstuffs and pesticides together is publicised.

❒ 5.2.1. Information about pesticidehazards and suitable treatmentof pesticide poisoning is provided to poison control centres and doctors.

❒ 5.2.4. Sale is halted and productsrecalled when handling or usepose an unacceptable risk underany use directions or restrictions.

❒ 5.3.1. The use of proper and affordable personal protectiveequipment is promoted.

❒ 5.3.2. Containers with small quantitiesof left-over pesticides are collected and disposed of properly.

❒ 8.2.4. Fair practices are followed byimporting agencies, national orregional formulators, and theirrespective trade organisations;and, assistance is provided togovernment authorities to eliminate malpractice.

❒ 8.2.6. Pesticides are traded by andpurchased from reputable traders, who should preferablybe members of a recognisedtrade association.

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❒ 8.2.7. Persons involved in the sale ofpesticides are adequately trained, hold appropriate government licenses, and arecapable of providing properadvice on risk reduction and use.

In addition, refer to the Checklist forAdvertising and the industry responsibilitieslisted.

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CropLife InternationalFebruary 2004

CropLife InternationalAvenue Louise 143

B-1050 BrusselsBelgium

tel +32 2 542 04 10fax +32 2 542 04 19 c r o p l i f e @ c r o p l i f e. o r g

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For contact details and updates please visit the CropLife website

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