CLP – Classification, Labelling and Packaging of substances and mixtures
The CLP (classification, labelling and packaging) Regulation (CE) 1272/2008 aligns previous EU legislation with the GHS (Globally Harmonised System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals). The GHS is a United Nations system to identify hazardous chemicals and to inform users about these hazards through standard symbols and phrases on the packaging labels and through safety data sheets (SDS).
The Regulation introduces new warning pictograms. The current EU pictograms (black symbol on an orange background) are being replaced by the GHS pictograms (black symbol on a white background inside a red frame) not only for chemicals used at the workplace but also for consumer products such as detergents or house cleaning products.
The CLP Regulation entered into force on 20 January 2009 and will progressively replace the classification and labelling of Dangerous Substances (67/548/EEC) and Dangerous Preparations (1999/45/EC) Directives. Both Directives will be repealed on 1 June 2015.
The key dates are:
- 1 December 2010, when substances must be reclassified and labelled in line with the CLP Regulation; and
- 1 June 2015, when the same process will be applied to mixtures (formerly called preparations).
More information
- Napo in …. Danger: Chemicals!
- DG Enterprise and Industry pages on CLP
- European Chemicals Agency pages on CLP
- GHS pictograms – United Nations Economic Commission for Europe
