New guidance for professional applications using enzymes-based cleaning products

A.I.S.E., AMFEP (Association of Manufacturers & Formulators of Enzyme Products), ACI (American Cleaning Institute) and HCPA (Household & Commercial Products Association) are pleased to announce the publication of a new industry guidance intended to provide recommendations to manufacturers of professional cleaning products on how to perform an appropriate risk assessment and establish a risk management of cleaning products containing enzymes.

For many years, enzymes have safely been used as functional ingredients in consumer products such as laundry detergents. They are also widely used in professional products for bulk laundering of fabrics and clothing from the manufacturing, healthcare, and service industries. Enzymes are also used in niche professional products, such as solutions for cleaning endoscopes, and specialised drain and surface cleaners. Due to their versatility and positive benefits, enzymes are being incorporated more into professional cleaning products. They can contribute to the sustainability and environmental safety profile of formulations that use them, since enzymes allow to reduce the temperature at which the cleaning product needs to be used.

Nevertheless, despite their low order of toxicity, it is well documented that enzymes correspond to respiratory sensitisers and that exposure by inhalation may lead to the development of occupational allergy.  

The Guidance has been developed to help manufacturers of professional cleaning products containing enzymes in their risk assessment and management processes:

• For the risk assessment, the document focuses on understanding the situations of use and the potential risk of generating airborne particles. 
• In the risk management process, the focus will be given on avoiding the generation of airborne particles by optimal product design and on communication of how to avoid any potential risk for the end-user.