Hazardous Substances Ordinance (GefStoffV).

The purpose of the present Ordinance is to protect – by issuing regulations on their classification, marking and packaging – both human beings and the environment from harmful effects of hazardous substances. The text consists of 25 articles divided into 7 Parts as follows: Purpose, sphere of application and definition of terms (1); Information on hazardous substances (2); Hazard assessment and basic obligations (3);Protective measures (4); Requirements for the use of pesticides including fumigation (4a); Ban and limitations (5); Implementation rules and Hazardous Substances Committee (6); Penalties and violations (7). Three Annexes are enclosed. The latest amendment to the Ordinance updates definitions and removes outdated provisions, including the deletion of § 3 and references to it, while aligning terminology with current chemical legislation. It introduces new requirements, particularly a mandatory authorization for certain demolition work involving hazardous materials (e.g., asbestos) and clarifies rules for the use of biocidal products. Additionally, it strengthens enforcement by adding new administrative offences, updating worker protection requirements, and requiring authorities to publish lists of approved companies.