Companies will have to comply with new regulations for handling chemicals in the future. The EU Commission has submitted a corresponding proposal to revise the CLP-Regulation (Regulation on Classification, Labeling and Packaging of Chemicals), which has been in force since 2008.

What will change?

The main changes relate to two areas: To the labeling of chemicals and their classification. Among other things, a minimum font size for labels will be specified. At the same time, the digital classification and labeling inventory of the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) is to become more transparent. Companies will be required to update their classifications within six months should the classification of the relevant chemical in the inventory have changed.

Background and next steps

The aim of the revision of the regulation is to encourage European industry to switch to sustainable chemicals. In the course of this, the revision of the REACH regulation is also planned.

The EU Commission’s draft still has to be approved by the Council, whereas the introduction of new hazard classes is expected as early as the beginning of this year.

Source: DIHK (german)