The Luxembourg environment agency has carried out quality checks of biocidal products on the Luxembourgish market, specifically disinfectants in context with the Covid-19 pandemic.

Out of 195 disinfectants for hands and surfaces, only 44 products were fully compliant with current legislation, the report reads. This resulted in 151 offences, resulting in a non-compliance rate of 77.4%. In total, 39 stores and service providers were subjected to controls.

While most of the offences included administrative measures that could be rectified, such as correct disposal management of the product, over 10 cases resulted in administrative fines, which amounted to a total of €25,000. In one case, the file was forwarded to the district prosecutor's office.

Demand for disinfectants has surged since the start of the pandemic, and a large number of new players have flocked to the Luxembourg market to sell their products. A large portion of these sellers do not deliver on all legal obligations, however.

A non-conforming product may either be ineffective for the user, and thus have no disinfectant effect, or present health hazards due to the use of certain chemicals.

Controls will continue to take place in 2021.