New classification, labelling and packaging regulation

The new EU regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 on classification, labelling and packaging of chemical substances and mixtures, the so called CLP Regulation entered into force on 20 January 2009.

The CLP Regulation will gradually replace the Dangerous Substances Directive (67/548/EEC) and the Dangerous Preparations Directive (1999/45/EC). Both Directives will be repealed on 1 June 2015.

Guidance

Guidance on the CLP Regulation will be published to support companies in fulfilling their obligations and in applying the new rules on classification, labelling and packaging. That guidance is currently being developed.

Harmonised classification and labelling

Under the CLP Regulation Member States may send proposals for the harmonised classification of substances that are carcinogenic, mutagenic, toxic for reproduction or respiratory sensitisers. Industry can also in certain cases send proposals.

REACH-IT

Companies can submit Classification and Labelling notifications on chemicals through REACH-IT when they have already been created in IUCLID 5. A new functionality is being developed to make the process easier so that the notification can be created directly in REACH-IT without using IUCLID 5. Companies may therefore choose to wait for the new functionality before submitting their notification.

IUCLID 5

IUCLID 5 (International Uniform Chemical Information Database) is a software tool for companies to store data on their chemicals. It can also be used to create C&L notifications to send to ECHA through the REACH-IT portal.

Helpdesks

Most of the Member States have recently established helpdesk services to assist companies in understanding their obligations concerning the CLP Regulation. For those Member States that are still in the process of setting up such a helpdesk service, the REACH helpdesks provide support on questions related to REACH as well as classification and labelling of substances and mixtures. ECHA provides support to the national CLP helpdesks as to the national REACH helpdesks (REACH Help Net). You find the contact details of the national CLP and REACH helpdesks here.

What are the CLP helpdesks for?

The CLP Regulation gives new responsibilites to industry and defines a new approach to the control of chemicals. Helpdesks are to be established in each Member State to assist companies - especially SMEs - to understand their new roles and duties.