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Once the hazardous properties of a substance or mixture have been identified, they need to be classified accordingly.

Suppliers (manufacturers, importers, downstream users and distributors), as well as producers and importers of certain specific articles, must communicate the identified hazards to the other actors in the supply chain, including to consumers.

This is done by labelling the substance, mixture or article in accordance with CLP before placing it on the EU market, when:

• The substance or mixture is classified as hazardous.
• The article has explosive properties.

CLP label information

CLP sets general requirements for labelling to ensure the safe use and supply of hazardous substances and mixtures.

CLP defines the size, formatting and content of the CLP label information, the organisation of the various CLP label information and location on the package. The CLP label information should be firmly attached to one or more of the packaging’s surfaces and must include the following:

• The name, address and telephone number of the supplier(s) (EU based /EU established supplier(s) as of 1 July 2026).
• The nominal quantity of a substance or mixture in packages made available to the general public (unless this quantity is specified elsewhere on the package).
• Product identifiers.
• Where applicable, hazard pictograms, signal words, hazard statements, precautionary statements and supplemental information required by other legislation.

Certain labelling exemptions apply e.g. to substances and mixtures contained in packaging that is considered as small (typically less than 125 ml) or is otherwise difficult to label. These exemptions allow for the omission of the hazard and/or precautionary statements or the pictograms from the CLP label information.

Packaging

The packaging of a hazardous substance or mixture must be designed, constructed, and fastened so that the contents cannot unintendedly escape at any time. So, the packaging materials must be strong and solid, and resistant to damage by the contents. Replaceable fastening devices must allow repeated refastening without the contents escaping.

The packaging of a hazardous substance or mixture that is supplied to the general public must not attract or arouse the curiosity of children or mislead consumers. Packaging must not have a similar presentation or a design used for foodstuff or animal feedstuff or medicinal or cosmetic products.