Date:
March 21, 2025
Categories:
Company, Industry News, Placards, Tips & Tricks,
Restrictions & regulations
Anyone who trades in chemical substances and mixtures and markets their products online must package and label them properly before shipping. There are numerous restrictions and regulations to prevent hazards. Even small quantities of hazardous substances can have a very dangerous effect if the strict requirements and measures are not taken into account. The sale of some particularly hazardous chemicals is now banned throughout Europe, while others may only be sold under strict conditions. There are numerous examples that show that it can be life-threatening if the substances are stored or shipped incorrectly.
ADR-, CLP-, REACH- und ChemVerbotsV
ADR - Regulation
The ADR regulation specifies in detail how the transportation of dangerous goods must be carried out safely and in compliance with the law on the roads within the member states – especially in Europe. In this regulation, the 9 hazard classes are described in detail, packaging regulations are regulated and transport and vehicle regulations are described. It also explains how labeling must be carried out. Information on documentation and training is also provided.
CLP – Regulation
The main content of the CLP Regulation relates to the classification of chemical substances and mixtures, which are classified according to their hazard characteristics (e.g. dangerous for the environment, flammable, etc.). Standardized hazard symbols are used for labelling, as well as substance-specific hazard statements (H-phrases) and precautionary statements (P-phrases). Furthermore, packaging is a very important component that helps to minimize risks during storage and transport.
REACH - Regulation
The REACH regulation affects all companies that classify themselves as manufacturers, importers and users of chemical substances, mixtures and articles within the EU. This regulation is the forerunner of the global chemicals regulation and affects all companies wishing to export to the EU market. One of the most important requirements for companies is the provision of safety data sheets to the customer. The compilation can be found in Regulation (EC) No. 1907/2006 (REACH) with relevant information. The advantages of this regulation (apart from the protection of humans, animals and the environment) include the transparency and traceability of the supply chain and the promotion of innovation, which is intended to encourage the development of alternatives to hazardous chemical substances.
Chemicals Prohibition Ordinance (ChemVerbotsV)
The Chemicals Prohibition Ordinance (ChemVerbotsV) sets guidelines such as the REACH and CLP regulations. The aim is to restrict or prohibit the placing on the market, supply and use of hazardous substances and mixtures in order to minimize risks. In addition to manufacturers, distributors and retailers, those affected also include commercial users and private individuals who handle hazardous chemicals. The substances and mixtures concerned include, for example, pesticides, CMR substances (carcinogenic, mutagenic and/or reprotoxic) or highly corrosive chemicals.
It is well known that violations can result in fines and criminal prosecution...
Clarity for sellers and buyers
Negative example
Packaging, labeling and shipping
There are different types of packaging for hazardous goods that are made up of different materials. The different forms include cartons, canisters, IBCs and drums. To ensure safe transportation, the products must be properly stored in approved packaging. For shipping within Germany and Europe, the packaging must be leak-proof, resistant and suitable for the specific hazardous goods. Depending on which product is to be shipped, the labeling is provided outside with hazard labels (e.g. class 3 for flammable liquids), UN numbers (classification to identify the hazardous goods) and, if necessary, other markings such as a handling mark (e.g. “Top” or “Caution fragile”). The transport documents must be carried for traceability. These contain information on the UN numbers and the official designation of the substance, hazard class, packaging groups, as well as the sender and recipient data. A safety data sheet is required for the transportation of chemical products. Apart from this, staff should always be trained in accordance with ADR 1.3 and protective equipment and fire extinguishers should be to hand in case of an emergency. Another important point is storage during transportation. Depending on the hazardous substance, it should be ensured that, for example, no acids are stored next to bases.
Our labels and packaging processes
Orange warning signs:
These signs show the UN number and hazard number. Our warning signs have been specially developed for the safe labeling of dangerous goods in accordance with ADR, RID, IATA and IMDG Code
Placards:
The color and number of the hazard label usually indicates the hazardous goods class. We also provide the additional label for heated substances in this format.
Hazard labels:
These labels indicate the hazard classes and subclasses of the actual package.
Technical names:
Provide clear identification of hazardous substances in accordance with the latest IMDG Code 2023 regulations.
Conclusion
Contact us today to find out more about our hazardous goods labels and other intralogistics solutions and to arrange a personal appointment.
