With tightening UK regulations on acid-based chemicals, HB Trade is helping the construction trade stay compliant while maintaining access to the powerful cleaning solutions they need.
The latest changes under the Control of Explosives Precursors and Poisons Regulations 2023 mean that certain high-strength chemicals can 
only be supplied to verified trade professionals. Among the regulated products are HB Trade Bullitt, a 96% sulphuric acid drain cleaner, and HB Trade Spirits of Salt, a 32% hydrochloric acid industrial descaler, which are available exclusively to registered trade users.
To purchase, UK law requires customers to record their details with the seller. This includes supplying the trade or business name and address, photographic ID of the authorised buyer, confirmation of the business type or profession and a VAT registration number where applicable.
“These products are strictly for professional use and cannot be sold anyone under 18, or to the general public without an EPP licence,” says Scarlet McAleese-Banks, Joint Managing Director of Hilton Banks. “HB Trade Bullitt and Spirits of Salts deliver the industrial-strength performance that professionals need, but these products must be handled with care and in full accordance with the law. We are committed to supporting both our trade customers and our distribution partners to ensure that these powerful solutions remain available for legitimate professional use while minimising risk.”
Given the strength of these acid-based products, HB Trade also provides clear guidance and support for safe handling. Professionals using Bullitt or Spirits of Salts must wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves, protective clothing and eye protection to reduce the risk of exposure. Usage guidelines should always be followed carefully, with users ensuring they fully understand the product instructions before handling. Secure storage is also essential, with products kept out of reach of unauthorised persons to prevent misuse. These precautions not only protect the user but also ensure compliance with safety regulations designed to minimise potential
harm.
By using HB Trade products, professionals benefit from legally compliant, rigorously tested formulations that adhere to UK safety standards while offering superior cleaning efficiency. It is worth noting that while the Spirits of Salts is banned from retail sale, a lower-strength 10% version remains legally available for non-professional customers.=
“HB Trade remains committed to supporting the cleaning and construction industry with reliable, compliant and high-performance solutions,” says Scarlet. “Through clear guidance and robust safety measures, the brand is setting the standard for responsible product use in the professional sector.”
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