Warning about biocide sachets in leather products
3 April 2009
The European Commission has banned the biocide Dimethylfumarate (DMF) in consumer products, such as sofas and shoes, from 1 May 2009.
Products containing DMF are prohibited from being placed or made available on the market with effect from that date
The ban covers all products containing DMF. However, reports of incidents from Member States available to date have indicated that the issue has been confined generally to leather furniture and footwear. There have been no reported cases in Ireland.
The National Consumer Agency advises consumers before buying such products to check with the retailer if the item contains DMF.
The NCA also reminds retailers that there is an onus on them to ensure that only safe products are offered for sale.
What to look out for
DMF can be found in little pouches or sachets (similar to a tea bag) fixed inside leather furniture or in footwear boxes. It is a biocide which is used to prevent moulds that may damage leather furniture, footwear or clothing during storage in a humid climate or during transport.
Over time the substance evaporates and penetrates the product. DMF can penetrate through clothes onto the skin and may cause dermatitis, skin itching, irritation, burns, and in some cases, acute respiratory difficulty.
The NCA has contacted major retailers, wholesalers and distributors advising them of the European Commission’s decision and requested them to take appropriate measures to ensure that consumers are not put at risk through contact with products that contain DMF.
Industry representative bodies have also been made aware of the decision and its implications for their members.
For further information please contact our consumer helpline at 1890 432 432.
Advice to business
The Commission's decision of 17 March 2009 prohibits businesses from offering products containing DMF for sale from 1 May 2009.
In addition, under the General Product Safety Directive, there is an onus on manufacturers, distributors and other operators to place only safe products on the market.
Accordingly, if they become aware that a product already placed on the market is hazardous, appropriate action must be taken to protect the safety of consumers.
The NCA can issue a direction to ensure the immediate withdrawal of a dangerous product from the market and its recall from consumers.
In the event of a dispute arising between traders and consumers regarding a claim that consumers have experienced DMF related problems, the only sure way of resolving this would be to have the product tested.
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