Thailand's Department of Industrial Works Introduces New Advertising Regulations for Hazardous Substances

On 18 September 2024, Thailand’s Department of Industrial Works (DIW) introduced new regulatory guidelines on the advertising of hazardous substances under its authority. These regulations which aim to improve public safety and environmental protection, follow the most recent amendments to the Hazardous Substances (No 4) BE 2562 (2019) and will take effect the day after the announcement is published in the Government Gazette. This draft guideline is now subject to public consultation from 18 September to 5 October 2024.  

New Guidelines for Advertising of Hazardous Substances 

Under the new announcement, hazardous substances under the responsibility of DIW must adhere to stringent guidelines when advertised. The guidelines focus on providing clear instructions, safety warnings and relevant hazard symbols to safeguard human health and the environment. 

Key Requirements for Advertising Hazardous Substances: 

1. Product Information: Advertisements must clearly display the name, trade name, ratio, use, importer/distributor details of the hazardous substances. 

2. Safety Warnings: All ads must include appropriate advice and warnings about the dangers of hazardous substances, including the required pictograms, signal words and hazard statements. 

3. Prohibition of Misleading Information: Advertisement must not contain ambiguous or misleading content that could lead to improper use of hazardous substances. 

4. Restricted Media Use: Advertising through electronic media such as radio, television, online platforms and digital platforms is strictly prohibited. 

5. Prohibition of Advertising: Advertising of hazardous substances that are fake, substandard, deteriorated, or unregistered are completely banned. 

List of Regulated Hazardous Substances 

The list of hazardous substances regulated under these guidelines includes various cyanides and other potentially dangerous chemicals. This move by the DIW is in line with Thailand's continued efforts to enhance public safety and ensure that the use of hazardous substances is well regulated. The Department encourages all manufacturers and distributors to strictly adhere to the new regulations to avoid penalties.