From October 1st 2023, the way that some classes of chemicals can be legally sold will be changing across Great Britain.

The Poisons Act 1972, along with The Control of Explosive Precursors and Poisons Regulations 2023, regulate the sale of chemicals that can be used for illegally manufacturing explosives or causing harm to the public.

The new 2023 regulations seek to address key legislative priorities for controlling explosives precursors identified following the 2017 explosive attacks in both Manchester and Parsons Green. The measures will come into force on 1st October 2023.

Explosives precursors are chemicals or mixtures that are usually used for legitimate purposes, but can also be misused to manufacture explosives. The Regulations distinguish between professional users and the general public.

Read more about the effects of this legislation below.

Poisons Act 1972 and Control of Explosives Precursors and Poisons Regulations 2023 - Customer Information Pack.