What is CLP?

The Classification, labeling and Packaging (CLP) Regulation is a European Union regulation which aligns the European Union system of classification, labeling and packaging chemical substances and mixtures to the Globally Harmonised System (GHS).

Why is it Important?

The chemical industry is in transition from country specific standards to European regulation known as CLP. This means your organization must comply with the following regulations and timelines.

At present, the regulatory framework consists of two separate but interconnecting systems for classification. The incumbent system is based on the EU Dangerous Substances Directive (DSD) and Dangerous Preparations Directive (DPD). For example, currently in Great Britain the implementation of this system is via the ‘Chemical Hazard Information and Packaging for Supply’ (CHIP 4) regulations, however on 1st June 2015, the DSD and DPD (and country specific standards such as CHIP 4) will be repealed by the CLP Regulation 2008.

CLP 2008 is the EU and EEA implementation of the Global Harmonised System (GHS) model for classification, labeling and packaging of chemicals, published in January 2009. All substances must be classified or reclassified under CLP by 1st December 2010 and all mixtures (preparations) by 1st June 2015.

For the duration of the transitional period (up to 1st June 2015), all products must be classified under both systems. However, once a product has been reclassified under CLP, communication of that classification (safety data sheet and label) should be to CLP. The safety data sheet must contain reference to the CHIP classification but the content must be consistent with the new CLP classification. Dependent on the component parts, CHIP 4 requires the use of tables in CLP in order to complete the CHIP new classification of a product.

Regardless of the classification system used, all safety data sheets must conform to Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH 2006) with regards to content and provision.

WHO IS IT RELEVANT TO?

CLP is relevant to any organization supplying products or working in chemical manufacturing and distribution. To find out more about the CLP, Visit http://echa.europa.eu/ for more information.

How can PRISYM ID help?

PRISYM Chemica labeling Software offers chemical manufacturers and distributors a single solution to meet their packaging and labeling requirements. PRISYM Chemica is a simple to use, label design application which allows you to place the required symbols/ pictograms, text, branding and codes onto your labels in compliance with chemical industry regulations including CHIP4 and CLP. It enables the management of chemical classifications and automates the production of labels and transit cards in multiple languages.