The revised Classification, Labelling, and Packaging (CLP) Regulation, enacted by the European Union, introduces updated guidelines impacting businesses in the chemical sector. Initially proposed by the European Commission in December 2022 as part of the Chemicals Strategy for Sustainability, the amended regulation is designed to enhance safety, clarity, and sustainability in handling chemical substances. Now that it has been approved, here’s a breakdown of what these changes mean for chemical businesses.
There are several aspects of the new CLP regulation that will be coming in to play for the EU market. This includes aspects such as:
1. Hazard Communication Enhancements: To improve hazard awareness, the revised regulation specifies clearer labelling standards. This includes standardising label sizes and increasing font size based on packaging volume, ensuring that hazard information is easily legible across different product sizes.
2. Fold-out Labels are now allowed as a regular feature, when GHS does not comply. They must include supplier information, product identifiers, and any applicable hazard symbols. This update is intended to streamline labelling while enhancing readability for multilingual markets.
3. New font sizes: These specifications vary based on the package’s size: for instance, packs up to 0.5L require a minimum 1.2mm font height, while those over 500L must use at least 2.0mm.
4. Digital Labelling: For the first time, digital labelling via barcodes or QR codes is permitted, supplementing physical hazard labels. The digital component can provide additional safety details accessible via a device, helping users – including those with visual impairments or language barriers – gain hazard information with ease. However, physical labels are still mandatory, and digital labels cannot replace them entirely. Information on digital labels must be accessible, searchable, and maintained for at least ten years
5. Refillable Products: Specific rules now apply to refillable chemical products, which are commonly found in household cleaning supplies. These rules clarify packaging and handling practices, prioritising safe and eco-friendly practices for refillable options.
The revised CLP Regulation brings several crucial changes, from labelling specifications to digital accessibility.
With these changes, companies have offered deadlines for implementation on your products.
For New Products: Within 18 to 24 months after the regulation’s publication, manufacturers must update labels for newly classified chemicals and follow new advertisement standards.
For Existing Products: Businesses have up to four years to transition to the updated label formatting for products already on the market. However, for products with newly designated hazard classes, the deadline shortens to 3.5 years.
The updates to the CLP Regulation demand close attention to detail in packaging, labelling, and digital information systems. While these changes present new responsibilities, they also aim to ensure a safer environment for all chemical users and handlers. Companies are encouraged to consult with regulatory experts to understand the full impact on their operations and to plan for smooth compliance transitions.
Printing in-house provides flexibility when regulations change because it enables companies to adapt quickly without relying on third-party vendors. With in-house printing, businesses can swiftly update labels, warnings, and product information to meet new compliance standards, ensuring products remain legally compliant and safe for use. This responsiveness minimises downtime, reduces potential regulatory fines, and ensures the accuracy of labelling, which is crucial at times like these.
In summary, the revised CLP Regulation reflects the EU’s commitment to advancing chemical safety and environmental responsibility. If you have questions on the changes you’re making to your labels, get in touch with one of our chemical labelling experts to discuss what changes are easily implemented.
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