Miscellaneous

33. What is the difference between the CHARM manual available from the OGP website, and the Excel CHARM calculator available from EOSCA?

The CHARM manual can be obtained free of charge as an Adobe Acrobat download from the non-OGP publications part of the OGP website. It is the only definitive source of the algorithms that form the model, and the Regulator considers that it is vital that people working with any version of the model should be familiar with its contents.

EOSCA have developed a useful Excel based tool - The CHARM Calculator that can be used to quickly interpret the written algorithms. However, as with any new tool, The Regulator considers it essential that users should have some understanding of the underlying principles of the model in order to make full use the new software. The best way to do this is to become familiar with the written CHARM manual, and it is a very useful exercise to spreadsheet some of the algorithms in order to see more clearly how they all interact. Once a thorough understanding has been achieved the CHARM calculator and the written algorithms can be 'creatively manipulated' in order to generate meaningful risk assessment data to support future PON applications.

34. Do OCNS groupings apply to other OSPAR countries?

Although the HMCS applies in all OSPAR signatory countries, each country operates its own regulatory scheme to implement Decision 2000/2. If you intend to market and use OCNS classified products outside UK territory, the relevant regulatory authorities should be consulted to determine the correct notification procedures.

35. How do I contact Cefas?

Contact details:

Cefas Burnham Laboratory
Remembrance Avenue
Burnham-on-Crouch
Essex CMO 8HA
Tel: 01621 787200
Fax: 01621 784989

For Risk assessment enquiries or related information please contact: ocns.ra@cefas.co.uk

For Chemical submissions or related enquiries ocns.chems@cefas.co.uk

36. How do I contact DTI?

DTI contact details:

DTI, Oil and Gas Division
Atholl House
86 - 88 Guild Street
Aberdeen
AB11 6AR

Tel: 01224 254000
Fax: 01224 254019

37. Will changing the function of my offshore chemical on the Cefas OCNS database effect how it is viewed under the EC Biocidal Products Directive (Directive 98/8/EC)?

No.

The selection of an OSPAR function of biocide for an offshore chemical has no impact on the on-going procedures under the PBD (98/8/EC). Those biocides on the market before 14 May 2000 (i.e. existing biocides) have been identified by the EU and a full list published in the Official Journal. For information on the background and progress of the BPD please see the European Chemicals Bureau web site at http://ecb.jrc.it/biocides/