In 1994 the South African timber treatment industry completed its revision of the South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) Code of Practice for the preservative treatment of timber. These revisions were undertaken in parallel with changes to the SABS specifications for preservative treated timber. As a result of shortcomings in the previous wood preservative classification system which was based on exposure conditions for treated timber, the hazard classification for wood preservatives in force in South Africa has changed. The paper details the newly adopted classification system and its role within the current legislation requirements. Specific reference is made to the performance and toxicological data required for registration of a wood preservative in South Africa. Requirements in terms of an industry-approved South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) standard "product" specification and compliance with the SABS standard "treatment" specification are also discussed in more detail. Existing test requirements, protocols and procedures for approval of new wood preservatives are summarised. In addition, the paper identifies possible changes that could lead to more appropriate testing and acceptance procedures which reflect the real preservative needs of the various hazard classes.

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