Miljøfarlige

Miljøfarlige is a term used to describe substances or preparations that can cause harm to the environment, particularly to aquatic ecosystems. The designation focuses on factors such as persistence, bioaccumulation, and toxic effects on water organisms. In Norwegian regulatory and safety contexts, miljøfarlig is used on packaging and safety data sheets to warn handlers and the public that a product should be used and disposed of in a way that minimizes environmental contamination.

Regulatory frameworks in Europe and Norway harmonize the classification and labeling of environmental hazards. Substances can be classified as ecotoxic to aquatic life, with categories such as Aquatic Acute and Aquatic Chronic, and corresponding hazard statements like H400 and H410. The label miljøfarlig commonly aligns with these ecotoxic classifications and appears together with pictograms and precautionary instructions on product labels to guide safe handling, storage, and disposal.

Miljøfarlige substances cover a range of materials, including certain pesticides, industrial chemicals, and some detergents or solvents that can harm aquatic life or persist in the environment. The term distinguishes environmental hazards from other dangers such as flammability or human toxicity. Ecotoxicity risk is assessed using tests on aquatic organisms, including algae, invertebrates, and fish, and may consider persistence and bioaccumulation potential.

Handling and disposal guidelines emphasize minimizing releases to the environment. This includes proper containment to prevent spills, adherence to storage requirements, and following local waste management rules. Products labeled miljøfarlig should be collected by approved waste handlers rather than poured into drains or surface water. Safety data sheets provide concrete storage, spill response, and disposal instructions to reduce environmental impact.