EPA Region 2 (N.J., N.Y., Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands and eight Native-American nations) has issued 29 advisory letter and eight notices of warning to entities operating in New York and New Jersey to address pesticide products and devices that were found to be marketed with unsubstantiated claims of efficacy against the novel coronavirus (the cause of COVID-19) and other pathogens.
Advisory letters were sent to a variety of businesses, including individual online sellers and large national companies.
Products designed specifically to sanitize, disinfect or sterilize surfaces are considered pesticides, and they are regulated by EPA under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA).
“Unregistered disinfectants put consumers at risk. Whether these products are being sold to make a quick buck or are being sold out of ignorance, EPA will not allow the public to be endangered by companies taking advantage of the COVID-19 situation and selling ineffective products,” said EPA Regional Administrator Pete Lopez. “Disinfectants and other pesticide products that are not properly tested and registered can pose a serious risk to public health. EPA is working with public and private partners to ensure that pesticide products imported into, and sold in, the U.S. are safe and effective.”
EPA and the CDC released updated guidance to help facility operators and families properly clean and disinfect spaces. The guidance provides step-by-step instructions for public spaces, workplaces, businesses, schools and homes. EPA has compiled a list of disinfectant products, including ready-to-use sprays, concentrates and wipes, that can be used against COVID-19. When using these products, always follow the directions and safety information on the label. A disinfectant product’s safety and effectiveness may change based on how it is used.
Web Design & Development by Endertech