The European Chemical Agency or ECHA on December 10th of 2024 has officially introduced an update on Classification, Labelling, and Packaging or CLP regulation. The update aims on the enhancement of the safety and transparency in chemical products within the European Union. The primary goal of this update is for better identification and communication regarding the hazardous chemicals and the updated CLP regulation includes various significant changes for the companies that handle various chemical categories. Hence, this blog explores the update of CLP regulation by ECHA and the steps companies need to take to keep them compliant with the law.
Key Changes In The Updated CLP Regulation
The updated CLP regulations are designed to offer a clear and effective solution to classify, label, and communicate the chemicals and the risks associated with the same. Hence, let us explore the main changes in the update in the CLP regulation.
Clarification Of Classification Rules For Mixtures And Substances
One of the major updates in the CLP regulation is the clarification in respect to the classification rules for chemical mixtures and substances. It is because these substances contain more than one constituent which is more crucial in terms of CLP regulation. Also, the update in terms of clarification of classification rules ensures a more accurate and uniform chemical classification process with complex compositions.
Emphasis On Grouping For Harmonised Classification
Also, the update in the CLP regulation holds a greater importance in grouping of the chemicals for a harmonized classification. This approach in the updated regulation ensures that chemicals with the similar properties are classified consistently improving the overall accuracy and clarity on hazard communication.
Improved Labelling of Hazardous Chemicals
It is also essential to know that the update for the CLP regulation was formulated in response to the evolving needs of the industry for clearer labelling requirements. It includes the option of digital labels which makes it easier for the business to communicate the potential risks of chemicals in a more efficient and accessible way.
Updates To The Classification And Labelling Inventory
The update in the CLP regulation also brings the changes in the information submitted and published in the inventory of Classification and labelling. The companies need to review and update the substance portfolio to ensure that necessary details are updated and accurate.
New Powers For The European Commission
The European Commission or EC has the authority to ask the ECHA or even the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) to announce an harmonized classification and labels for the specific chemicals. It ensures a streamlined approach for chemical safety across the EU.
Sale Of Chemicals At Refill Stations
An significant addition to the regulation is with the introduction of rules regarding the sales of chemicals at the refill stations. This approach aims in improving the safety and consumer protection whenever the chemicals are sold in bulk or refilled at the retail location.
Role Of Distributors In Poison Centre Notifications
Finally, the updated regulation gives a clarification for the distributors that they hold a crucial responsibility for poison centre notification in alerting their customers about the new information regarding the risks. This emphasises the responsibility of the distributors where they should ensure the safe handling and sale of the chemicals.
New Hazard Classes & Their Importance
It is essential to understand that last year’s CLP regulation introduced the new hazard classes which has now received a high response in prioritizing the classification. Hence, updated CLP includes classes like persistent, toxic (PBT), bioaccumulative, very persistent and very bioaccumulative (vPvB), very persistent and very mobile (vPvM), and persistent, mobile and toxic (PMT). These chemicals are considered as highly concerned and subjected to a harmonized classification.
Steps Companies Must Take
The steps to remain compliant with the updated CLP regulation that companies should follow are stated below.
- The first thing that a company should follow is that they should have a complete review of their portfolio regarding their chemical and their mixtures to ensure they meet the new classification requirements. This includes updating the new classification in regard to ECHA which can be done through EACH registration dossier or CLP notification.
- The companies should assess their substance in the aspect of new hazard classes such as PBT, vPvB, and PMT substances.
- Look for ECHA’s guidance to help companies go through the CLP obligations. It helps the companies to go through the enforcement for mixture classification based on bridging principles.
- To support businesses in understanding the updated CLP regulation, ECHA offers valuable resources such as webinars and comprehensive guides. Companies should make use of it to stay informed about the upcoming changes.
For more detailed guidance and support on REACH compliance and to ensure your business meets all their obligations under the new CLP regulation, contact Sunstream compliance team.
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