On cleaning products the label explains at the same time what the product is and how it is used safely. A disinfection claim places the product under an entirely different authorisation regime. Not strengthening the language of claims in translation is the strictest rule of this sector.
Ingredient groups
For detergents the ingredients are declared in groups and in percentage ranges. The wording of the range is preserved. The group names come from the regulation.
Percentage ranges
Ingredient percentages are given as a range instead of a single value, and this is deliberate. The range is not narrowed. The values are carried over.
Declaration of preservatives and allergens
Certain preservatives and fragrances are declared above a threshold. The declaration is mandatory. The names are written in the standard form.
The biocidal distinction
Products that carry a disinfection claim come under a separate authorisation regime. Adding a claim moves the product into another category. No claim is created in translation.
Efficacy claims
Claims of efficacy against bacteria or viruses must be supported by tests. The test information has meaning together with the claim. The information is preserved.
Hazard statements
Coded hazard statements are given in established wording. The code and the text match. No free translation is made.
Precautionary statements
The precautions to be taken are also coded and have defined equivalents. The texts are not altered. The match is verified.
Pictograms
Hazard symbols are standard and appear on the packaging. The symbols are not translated. The explanatory text is translated.
Directions for use
How and in what proportion the product is to be used is stated, and the text contains dilution information. The proportions are given with their units. The values are verified.
Dilution ratios
For concentrated products the dilution ratio determines efficacy. A wrong ratio makes the product ineffective or harmful. The values are checked separately.
Warnings on incompatible products
Some products must not be used together, and this warning is mandatory. The warning is carried over in full. The emphasis is preserved.
Safety data sheet
A detailed safety data sheet (SDS) is issued for professional users, and it has a fixed section structure. The order of the sections is preserved. The content is carried over in full.
Environmental information
Information is given on biodegradability and on the effect on aquatic organisms. The test information is preserved. The values are carried over.
Packaging and dosing systems
Systems such as a measuring cap and a pump determine the dose and are explained in the instructions. The measures are carried over. The instructions are translated.
The professional and consumer distinction
The same product is offered to different user groups with different documents. The two documents are not mixed up. The scope is clarified.
Child-resistant closures
A child-resistant closure is mandatory on some products and is stated on the label. The information is preserved. The warning is carried over.
Disposal information
How the used product and the packaging are to be disposed of is stated. The text has a set structure. It is carried over.
Storage conditions
At what temperature and how the product is to be stored is stated on the label, and this prevents deterioration. Freezing and excessive heat spoil some formulations irreversibly. The conditions are carried over together with their values.
The costliest mistake in this sector
Adding a disinfection claim to a cleaning product in translation turns the product into an unauthorised biocidal product and leads to its withdrawal from the market. A single strengthened adjective can produce this result. Claim wording is matched one to one with the source.