The OSPAR Convention requires documentation of ecotoxicological properties of chemicals used in the oil and offshore industry. Mandatory ecotoxicological data include investigation of biodegradability in seawater, bioaccumulation potential (log POW) and toxic effects on marine organisms from the three trophic levels, algae, crustaceans and fish.
Our ecotoxicological laboratory performs tests in accordance with ISO 17025, accredited by DANAK (the Danish Accreditation and Metrology Fund) and, furthermore, the laboratory is authorized to carry out studies in compliance with the OECD Principles of Good Laboratory Practice (GLP).
Harmonised Offshore Chemical Notification Format
The Harmonised Offshore Chemical Notification Format (HOCNF) applies to all chemicals used in connection with offshore exploration and production activities in the OSPAR maritime area, i.e. the North Sea.
In addition to the required toxicity tests, we prepare HOCNF datasheets for chemicals used in the oil and offshore industry.
The full OSPAR marine toxicity data set comprises:
| Test description | Guideline |
|---|
Alga, growth inhibition test
(Skeletonema costatum) |
ISO 10253 (2006) |
Crustacean acute, static or semi-static toxicity test (Acartia tonsa) |
ISO 14669 (1999) |
Fish - sheepshead minnow acute, static or
semi-static toxicity test
(Cyprinodon variegatus) |
OSPAR (2006) |
Mud shrimp, acute, static or semi-static toxicity test (Corophium volutator) |
OSPAR (2006) |
Ready biodegradability
Biodegradation in seawater |
OECD 301
OECD 306 |
Log Pow (QSAR) |
EPI suite (US-EPA) |
Log Pow |
OECD 117 |
Marine algae, crustaceans as well as fish are cultured at DHI. Therefore, we are independent of seasonal availability of test organisms and capable of performing the required tests whenever requested.