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CMM - Environmental Protection - Disinfecta​nts


Disinfectants and Disinfectant-Detergents

Disinfectants are formulated chemicals used in food, health services, and many other industries where they relied on to render inanimate surfaces free of microorganisms. A multitude of active ingredients or combinations thereof provides disinfecting and cleaning properties.

The intention of this compulsory specification is to ensure that any product that is claimed to be a disinfectant should meet or exceed the performance claimed on the label and supporting publicity material and datasheets. It only covers requirements for disinfectants intended for use on inanimate surfaces. It does not cover antiseptics or bacteriostatic agents.

All disinfectants sold in the Republic of South Africa are covered by this compulsory specification. In addition to the requirements in this specification, the requirements promulgated under the Fertilizers, Farm Feeds, Agricultural Remedies and Stock Remedies Act, 1947 (Act No. 36 of 1947), the Medicines and Related Substances Act, 1965 (Act No. 101 of 1965), and the Foodstuffs, Cosmetics and Disinfectants Act, 1972 (Act No. 54 of 1972) also apply. Biocides for use in water treatment are excluded.

If a disinfectant complies with the requirements of this compulsory specification, it can be considered to be bactericidal, fungicidal, sporicidal, or virucidal, but it should not necessarily be inferred that it is suitable for a defined purpose.​






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