Paints and varnishes: 5 of 32 batches tested for volatile organic compounds rejected
In 2025 the Polish Trade Inspection checked the labelling of 312 batches of paints and varnishes containing volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and a laboratory in Gliwice tested the VOC content of 32 batches. Five batches were rejected for incorrect VOC content and 4 for labelling; UOKiK published the results on 5 June 2026.
- The checks covered products for painting buildings and their elements and vehicle refinishing products subject to Directive 2004/42/EC and the Polish regulation of 8 August 2016 limiting VOC emissions; 61 businesses were inspected and irregularities were found at 9.
- Testing was performed by the Institute for Engineering of Polymer Materials and Dyes, Paint and Plastics Department in Gliwice. The label must state the maximum VOC limit value for the product category (g/l) and the maximum VOC content of the ready-to-use product.
- In three batches the VOC content of the ready-to-use product exceeded the 500 g/l limit and the declaration: 592.4 ± 87.4 g/l, 508.4 g/l and 503.7 g/l; in two others it was higher than the producer’s declaration: 504 g/l against a declared maximum of 470 g/l (within the 700 g/l limit for that category) and 302.5 and 300.8 g/l in the sample and the control sample against a declared maximum of 300 g/l.
- Labelling shortcomings included missing product category and subcategory and VOC values (2 batches), no maximum VOC content of the ready-to-use product (1) and a discrepancy between the label and the technical document (1).
Source: UOKiK — Przelotne związki? – kontrola Inspekcji Handlowej (05.06.2026)