SAFE HANDLING OF ENZYMES

Enzymes are a great technology used in detergents which have impact on sustainability, reducing energy consumption when cleaning and tackling specific stains. However, safe handling of enzymes is important because, if inhaled in their raw state, they may cause respiratory allergy similar to other allergens like pollen, house dust mites and animal dander. The A.I.S.E. Enzyme Working Group has developed multiple tools to support companies in the safe use of enzymes. While primarily aimed at the detergent industry, the principles of the tools are generally applicable to other enzyme-handling occupations. Here is an overview  of the industry’s historical contribution to the safe handling of enzymes.

Download: The story of enzymes: A.I.S.E.’s historical contribution to enzyme safety

The role of enzymes in detergent products - factsheet 

  • Full guidelines on safe handling of enzymes (Version 2.2 Mar 2018) Guide
  • Summary of guidelines on safe handling of enzymes (Dec 2014) Guide
  • Risk Assessment Guidance for Enzyme Containing Products (Oct 2005) Guide. 
  • Guidance for the Risk Assessment of Enzyme-Containing Consumer Products 2019 version 
  • Spray protocol (revised Jul 2020) Guide
  • HERA document (Subtilisins (Protease)) (Feb 2007) Guide
  • Developing Consumer Products Containing Enzymes (Apr 2006) Guide
  • HERA document (amylases, lypases, cellulases) (Nov 2005) Guide
  • Enzyme operational guidance for third party logistics suppliers (Jan 2020) Guide. 
  • Safety in the use of enzymes containing reagents for medical device cleaning Amfep guidance

Disclaimer

The material has been prepared by the A.I.S.E. Enzymes Safety Working Group (previously called A.I.S.E. Enzyme Safety Task Force) in line with EU regulations. The information contained above has general applicability to the detergent and cleaning industry; it may be applied in other jurisdictions but legal compliance in those areas must be assured separately. A.I.S.E.  assumes no liability for any errors or omissions or for the use made of these guidelines by any person or company.

More Guidance

ECHA factsheet: Hazard Classification of Industrial Enzymes (June 2016). This factsheet was made for CLP classification of mixtures that contain enzymes and provided to national REACH helpdesks as well as enforcement authorities for reference.

Disclaimer

This information is provided free of charge and is based on technical data that the A.I.S.E./AMFEP participating member companies believe to be reliable. It is intended for use by persons having technical skills and at their own discretion and risk. Since conditions of use are outside our control, we make no warranties, express or implied, and assume no liability in connection with any use of this information. Nothing herein is to be taken as a license to operate under or a recommendation to infringe any patents.

Any use of the guidelines should make reference to the ownership by A.I.S.E./AMFEP. Translations are provided to facilitate the usage of this material worldwide and ensure the highest level possible of workers’ protection. However, each company using the guidelines should secure adequate translation. A.I.S.E./AMPFEP accepts no liability for such translations. Please note that in cases where some brands can be recognised in the images, those are included only as illustrative examples and A.I.S.E./AMFEP do not recommend any brand in particular.

Each interactive webinar is led by a member of the A.I.S.E. Enzyme Working Group and lasts approximately 45 minutes.

Introduction to Enzyme Safety (October 2015) 
Presentation (PDF);  Audio (YouTube)

Enzymes: Risk Management Measures (November 2015)
Presentation (PDF);  Audio (YouTube)

Engineering Controls: Safety and Engineering Teams (February 2016)
Presentation (PDF);  Audio (YouTube)

Exposure Monitoring: Safety, Laboratory & Quality Managers, Laboratory Staff (March 2016)
Presentation (PDF)

Health Surveillance: Site Management, Safety Managers, Occupational Health (April 2016)

Presentation (PDF);  Audio (YouTube)

Performance Monitoring: Site Management, Safety Managers, Occupational Health (May 2016)
Presentation (PDF);  Audio (YouTube)

Questions & Answers (2016) 
Webinar Q&A

For any information related to webinars: [email protected]

  • 2007: Seminar on Consumer Health, Frankfurt
  • 2005: Enzyme Seminar, Amsterdam
  • 2002: Seminar on Occupational Health, Frankfurt

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