Movatterモバイル変換

The Classification, Labelling and Packaging (CLP) Regulation ((EC) No 1272/2008) is based on the United Nations’ Globally Harmonised System (GHS) and its purpose is to ensure a high level of protection of health and the environment, as well as the free movement of substances, mixtures and articles.

CLP is directly applicable and binding across the EU. It applies to all substances and mixtures, placed on the EU market, with the exception of those listed in Article 1, paragraphs 2 to 5. Suppliers (manufacturers, importers, downstream users, and distributors) of substances and mixtures, all have general and specific obligations depending on their role. Hazardous substances and mixtures placed on the EU market must be classified in accordance with CLP, and its labelling and packaging rules must be followed.

To ensure that correct label information and safe packaging reaches the final user, the whole supply chain needs to co-operate.

CLP revisions

The CLP Regulation was significantly revised in 2023 with the inclusion of new hazard classes (Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2023/707), entry into force on 20 April 2023.

Another significant revision took place in 2024 (Regulation (EU) 2024/2865) with new and amended provisions. They cover a range of subjects from classification, labelling and packaging. However, not all the new and amended provisions apply from the entry into force, 10 December 2024, but instead, a staggered application is laid down.

The 2024 Regulation was amended by Regulation (EU) 2025/2439, entering into force on 23 December 2025. With it, the application date for certain specific labelling and packaging provisions changes to 01 January 2028.

More information can be found inApplication dates amending CLP.

Before the mandatory application dates, suppliers (manufacturers, importers, downstream users and distributors) are not required to classify, label and package their substances and mixtures according to the revised legislation, but they may do so on a voluntary basis. However, by the mandatory application dates, all suppliers must apply the changes on classifying, labeling and packaging of substances and mixtures.

Classification

One of the main aims of CLP is to determine whether a substance or mixture has properties that lead to a hazard classification. In this context, classification is the starting point for hazard communication.

When relevant available information (e.g. eco/toxicological data) on a substance or mixture meets the classification criteria in CLP, the hazards of a substance or mixture are identified by assigning certain hazard classes and categories. The hazard classes in CLP cover physical, health, environmental and additional hazards.

Labelling and packaging

Once a substance or mixture is classified, the identified hazards must be communicated to other actors in the supply chain, including consumers. Hazard labelling allows the hazard classification, with labels and safety data sheets, to be communicated to the user of a substance or mixture. It alerts them to the presence of a hazard and the need to manage the associated risks. It also sets general packaging standards to ensure the safe supply of hazardous substances and mixtures.

Additionally,Harmonised classification and labelling, Alternative chemical names in mixtures, Classification and Labelling Inventory (C&L Inventory) and Poison centres, are processes that are part of CLP.