CLP Regulation and GHS DirectivesThe importance of ATPs and our services for the safe labeling of hazardous substances

The labelling and classification of hazardous substances in the European Union is regulated by the CLP Regulation, which adopts the international GHS (Globally Harmonized System) standards. It ensures that chemical substances and mixtures are labeled clearly and comprehensibly in order to guarantee safety for humans and the environment. The CLP Regulation is regularly adapted by the so-called Adaptations to Technical Progress (ATPs), which respond to scientific findings and regulatory requirements. The most recent adaptation, the 22nd ATP, was published in October 2024 and will enter into force on May 1, 2026.

1. Basics of the CLP Regulation and GHS

The Classification, Labeling and Packaging Regulation (CLP) harmonizes the classification and labeling of chemicals in the EU. It is based on the globally valid United Nations GHS standard. The regulation ensures that hazards are identified by clear pictograms, H-phrases (hazard warnings) and P-phrases (safety warnings), which indicate chemical hazards and the necessary handling.

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Gefahren- und Sicherheitshinweise für Chemikalien, Individualisiert, 148,5x105 mm, 4 Stk je Blatt

Important components of the CLP Regulation:

Hazard pictograms: Symbols that identify specific hazards.
Signal words and H-phrases: These warn of specific health or environmental risks.
P-phrases: Safety instructions that describe measures to reduce risks.

2. The role of ATPs in the CLP Regulation

The ATPs to the CLP Regulation update the existing classification and labeling requirements. These adaptations are based on new scientific findings in order to increase safety and regulate the handling of chemicals in the best possible way. Each ATP includes new classification criteria, hazard classes or notes and is tailored to specific substances.

Current examples of the 22nd ATP (October 2024):

Introduction of new hazard criteria for endocrine disruptors:

The 22nd ATP adds new criteria for the classification of endocrine disruptors that can affect the hormone system of humans and animals. These substances are particularly problematic for the environment and health as they can adversely affect biological functions. With this update, the CLP Regulation responds to the growing awareness of the risks of endocrine disruptors and increases safety through more specific assessment criteria. This is particularly important for companies that manufacture or use such substances to ensure risk-appropriate classification and labeling

More precise formulations of H and P statements for certain substance groups:

The 22nd ATP also includes a revision and clarification of certain H (hazard statements) and P (safety statements) phrases. These revised wordings provide clearer communication of potential risks and necessary safety measures. For example, more specific P-phrases have been added for certain groups of chemicals to specifically warn of specific hazards and indicate measures for safe handling. These adjustments make it easier for users to better understand and implement security requirements

Adjustments to hazard pictograms:

The 22nd ATP also provides for changes in the application of hazard pictograms. This means that some substances will now be given new or differently classified pictograms to highlight their specific risks more clearly. One example is the classification of glyphosate and other chemicals, where the pictogram has been revised or adapted to other hazard classes to better identify their potential risks. This does not involve the introduction of new pictograms, but rather the targeted adaptation of existing symbols

These adjustments will come into effect on October 20, 2024 and must be applied no later than May 2026. A transition period of around one and a half years was granted to give companies time to sell off existing inventories and implement the new classifications for the production and labeling of products

Our labeling offer for the CLP regulation:

We offer services in printing labels for hazardous substances that comply with the CLP and GHS guidelines. Our service includes the creation of print data or layouts based on the information provided by the customer, whereby the customer is responsible for the correct classification and labeling.

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3. Our services: High-quality printing of your labels and CLP-compliant labeling

We offer hazardous substance label printing services that comply with CLP and GHS guidelines. Our service includes the creation of print data or layouts based on the information provided by the customer, whereby the customer is responsible for the correct classification and labeling of the content.

We take over:

Printing of your provided print data: We print the data provided by the customer in the highest quality on robust, durable material.
Creation of print data on request: If desired, we create label layouts according to the content information provided. However, responsibility for content and compliance with legal requirements remains with the customer.
Optimization of label materials: Our hazardous substance labels are weather-resistant and seawater-proof, ideal for indoor and outdoor use.

Our products:

We offer label solutions that comply with the latest ATPs to the CLP regulation, but are created in accordance with customer specifications. These include labels for different container sizes, which can contain all the required information on H and P phrases.

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