Pesticide & Toxic Chemicals Stakeholder Workshop by Shenequa Williams and Carol-Faye Bynoe-George

On July 30th a stakeholder’s workshop was held under the theme, “Importation Procedures” Mr. Jonah Ormond, Registrar of Pesticides and Toxic Chemicals, provided a critical overview of chemical regulations. Over recent years, the importance of this workshop has grown, underscored by ongoing discussions about chemical safety and public health.

Chemical regulation is not just an agricultural issue but a significant human health concern. Pesticides, commonly associated with agriculture, also permeate food and household products. The board overseeing these chemicals operates under the Minister of Agriculture but it is crucial in controlling substances affecting public health. When chemicals exceed safe levels in food, they pose health risks not only to humans and animals but also to the environment.

Dr. Linroy Christian emphasized the importance of responsible use and application of household chemicals which were often overlooked compared to agricultural chemicals. “Advertisements suggesting the safety of indoor insecticides, can be misleading. Regular use of such products can expose households to harmful chemicals, raising serious health concerns. Proper handling and awareness are essential to mitigate these risks”, assured Dr. Christian.

During her address, Ms. Petranilla Estrada, the Deputy Registrar of the Pesticides and Toxic Chemicals Control Board (PTCCB), outlined the organization’s key objectives, definitions, and functions. She emphasized that the PTCCB is dedicated to the regulating and managing pesticides and toxic chemicals to ensure public health and environmental safety. Ms. Estrada highlighted critical definitions and concepts fundamental to understanding the board’s work, such as the classification of various chemicals and their potential impacts.

She also detailed the PTCCB primary functions, which include the registration, monitoring, and enforcement of regulations concerning the use and distribution of these substances. Through these efforts, the PTCCB aims to promote safe practices and mitigate risks associated with pesticides and toxic chemicals.

One critical aspect of the board’s work is regulating the importation of chemicals. Products bought online, especially those from international platforms like Amazon, may not comply with local regulations. This non-compliance can lead to significant environmental and health hazards. The board’s task includes ensuring that all chemicals entering the country are registered and safe for use.

According to Mr. Ormond, the regulatory framework has been evolving since the 1970s. Despite longstanding legislation, the first licensing for chemical sales only occurred in 2008. “This gap highlights the historical challenges in enforcing compliance. Today, the board actively license and monitors chemical distributors, ensuring they meet regulatory standards.

This workshop highlighted the vital role of regulatory bodies in managing chemical safety. As participants, your engagement and adherence to these regulations are crucial in protecting public health and the environment”, said Mr. Ormond.

The Global Harmonization System (GHS)

Although the Global Harmonization System is not embellished into the local legislation this might soon become a reality and therefore an introduction on it was delivered by Mr. Jonah Ormond and reiterated in her closing remarks by Miss Estrada.

From examining the global harmonization system (GHS) it was noted that there maybe gaps in legislation that needs to be addressed as they are outdated the Pesticides and Toxic Chemicals Act is 2008 with an amendment in 2022 only looking at the functionality of the board. Still significant legislation matters, enforcement is needed and institutional amendments. The pesticides and Toxic Chemicals Control Board has started education and Training workshops. This being the first targeted individuals responsible for boarder control so they can be aware of offence, requirements, legislations and procedures.

“The PTCCB will seek to continue these workshops across sectors and now that boarder control is informed.  We hope to see a higher level of compliance which will limit the need for enforcement and harsh penalties”, announced Miss Estrada.

The workshop was well attended and supported by the participants.  Among the attendees were personnel from the Custom and Excise department, Custom Brokers and Importers. The workshop was the first of others to come in the near future and they will target stakeholders from other sectors with the aim to foster open dialogue and provide the necessary information to motivate compliance to chemical regulations effectively.

The organizers thanked the participants for their engaging discussions and invaluable inputs.  Gratitude was expressed to the Custom/Excise department for hosting the exercise, providing the venue and the hospitality extended.