What is CLP?

"CLP" is a short name of Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 of the European Parliament and Council of 16 December 2008 on classification, labelling and packaging of substances and mixtures, amending and repealing Directives 67/548/EEC and 1999/45/EC, and amending Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006. It means Classification, Labelling and Packaging and is based on the United Nations’ Globally Harmonised System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (UN GHS).

What is the purpose of CLP?

Since 1 June 2015, CLP Regulation is the only legislation in the European Union for classification and labelling of chemical substances and mixtures. It harmonize the criteria for classification and the rules on labelling and packaging for hazardous substances and mixtures.

Who is obliged to fulfill CLP requirements?

CLP is applied directly in European Economic Area (EEA), which consists of all 28 Member States of European Union (Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Switzerland, United Kingdom) as well as Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein.

Every manufacturer, importer and downstream user established in EEA have to classify, label and package substances and mixtures placed on the EEA market according to CLP Regulation. Additionally, manufacturers and importers of articles have also to classify substances that are subject to registration or notification under Regulation (EC) no 1907/2006 (REACH).

Are there any exclusions from CLP?

Yes. For example: radioactive substances and mixtures; substances and mixtures which are in temporary storage, or in a free zone or free warehouse with a view to re-exportation, or in transit; non-isolated intermediate; substances and mixtures for scientific research and development; wastes. CLP Regulation is not applied to substances and mixtures which are used in: medicinal, veterinary medicinal, cosmetic products; medical devices; as a food additive, as a flavouring in foodstuffs; as an additive in feeding stuffs; in animal nutrition; transport of dangerous goods by air, sea, road, rail or inland waterways (Article 1 (2, 3, 4, 5, 6) of CLP Regulation).

Where may I find more information on CLP Regulation?

European Chemical Agency page on CLP Regulation

European Chemical Agency page with guidances on CLP