The HSE have recently announced that they will be adopting the Bee Guidance (Guidance on the assessment of risks to bees from the use of biocides) that was published by ECHA in 2024. For Northern Ireland, the guidance was already in force but will now be coming into force for new GB applications from 1st February 2027.

This guidance brought about necessary clarity on how to perform the risk assessment for biocides which are applied to, or reach, the environment through outdoor spraying, application of manure/sludge from animal housings, irrigation and large scale spraying of trees, bushes or natural water bodies. It is specific to PT18 emission scenarios for products or active substances which have an insecticidal mode of action.

This is continuing the trend of alignment between the GB and EU regulations which we previously wrote about, where the UK Government were in negotiation regarding Sanitary and Phytosanitary goods (SPS).

Recent Updates from the EU

It's also important to note, that the Efficacy TAB was updated in March 2026 and was immediately applicable within the EU – adding additional clarity to the Bee Guidance. It would be safe to expect that both the Bee Guidance and the Efficacy TAB information should be taken into account for any Environmental Risk Assessments from February 2027 in the GB market.

If you have any questions or concerns about how this guidance will impact your GB applications, call or email and speak with one of our Environmental or Biocides Regulatory specialists. Our highly qualified team, with experience in applying this guidance in the EU, are ready to support you through this evolving and complex regulatory environment.