Classification

Since 1 June 2015 substances and mixtures alike must be classified and labelled in accordance with CLP before they are placed on the market.

It’s an old adage that, in sufficient doses, all chemicals are capable of causing damage. For a long time, it has been recognised that we need to prioritise our efforts on chemicals to deal with the more dangerous ones – for example, those which cause problems at small doses. CLP is the EU regulatory framework for deciding if a chemical is hazardous enough to warrant concern, to enable the hazards to be identified and for making sure that users are aware of them through standardised communication formats.

The sorting of chemicals into those of concern (hazardous) and those we can be relatively relaxed about is known as classification. The activity consists of systematically gathering information about the chemical’s properties and comparing the data with set criteria – in the case of CLP, the criteria are mainly derived from a global agreement known as GHS (short for “globally harmonised system”). If a chemical meets a threshold it is “classified” and this triggers a series of actions ranging from labels, information in safety data sheets and possibly special packaging and control measures.

Classification demands expertise and professional judgement when assessing the available data against the classification criteria. Since 1 June 2015 substances and mixtures alike must be classified and labelled in accordance with CLP before they are placed on the market. Do you know what you need to do? Why not read our guidance document below which will help you get started.

Harmonised classification and labelling

For many hundreds of substances - such as those substances classified as carcinogenic, mutagenic, or toxic for reproduction (CMR), respiratory sensitisers and those with widespread use - EU-wide classification is necessary to ensure adequate risk management. The classification of these substances is agreed by EU government experts and is legally binding. Such harmonised classifications are published in Annex VI to CLP. One way to search Annex VI to CLP is via the ECHA Classification and Labelling Inventory; however, note that the inventory is not a formal legal text.

 If you have a substance which is listed in Annex VI to CLP the classification is mandatory for the endpoints given. For the unlisted properties you will need to self-classify. A number of online resources such as the ECHA Dissemination Portal, the C&L Inventory, and the OECD eChemPortal, may be helpful to you. Our Approved Service Providers can also help with data searching, classification - and the rest of your REACH, CLP and Biocides needs!

REACHReady Guidance Documents

  • AdobeStock_448715589

    REACHReady Guide

    Getting started: CLP resources

    It’s tempting to find a copy of the Regulation and to plunge in. Our advice is STOP! Only do this if you are competent at classification under the previous system (DSD/DPD), you understand the background to CLP, and are comfortable working with legal texts. If so, then the full text ...

  • solutionsforourfuture-option1 (1)

    REACHReady Guide

    Classification of substances

    Classification and labelling of substances has been part of EU law for more years than most of us have worked, and it has gone through many step changes. We are used to the hazard warning labels found on household bleach and some other household chemicals, but we know we don’t ...

  • AdobeStock_194483477 (1)

    REACHReady Guide

    Classification of mixtures

    Since 1 June 2015, substances and mixtures alike must be classified and, where required, labelled in accordance with CLP before they are placed on the market. There was a two-year derogation for mixtures already labelled under the Dangerous Preparations Directive (DPD) and placed on the market by that date, which ...

  • Warning symbol for chemical hazard on chemical container

    REACHReady Guide

    CLP Briefing Note: Making a business plan

    If you have global responsibility for classification and labelling, then you MUST know something about the source of CLP: the UN GHS system for classification and labelling. We suggest you visit the UN website and briefly read the introductory notes. 

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