Understanding Your CLP Requirements
CLP stands for the Classification, labelling and Packaging of substances and mixtures (Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008).
This regulation requires that when a product or substance is packaged, the packaging must include a hazard pictogram either when –
- The substance packaged is classified as hazardous or
- The packaged product contains one or more substances at a level which is classified as hazardous.
The CLP regulation incorporates the GHS (Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals) hazard pictograms, which are explained below in more detail –
GHS01 – Explosive – Depending on the hazard category substances may be seen as an explosion hazard. Examples of such could be cellulose nitrate which can violently decompose and/or combust under the right circumstances, such as with an ignition source.
GHS08 – Systemic Health – Designed to signify threats to long term health – carcinogens (substances that cause cancer), mutagens (generic defects), reprotoxins (affecting fertility or harm to the unborn child).
An example of which could be Benzene, used as an additive in petrol, Methanol is an example of a STOT substance, known to cause damage to the optic nerve after a single acute exposure.
GHS07 – Irritant – This symbol can be difficult to interpret without additional context and hazard information. Lower category corrosive substances would apply to this pictogram for materials classed as irritants.
This pictogram can be seen on everyday items such as washing up liquid or laundry powders. It can also apply to skin sensitisers like fragrance oils which can cause skin irritation and trigger rashes and other allergic symptoms.
GHS04 – Compressed Gas – This pictogram doesn’t necessarily relate to the properties, rather the storage conditions. Gases held under high pressure, such as propane (gas for your BBQ), liquefied gas (nitrogen) or refrigerated liquefied gas (such as carbon dioxide).
These substances may be subject to explosion when heated or rapidly cooled.
GHS09 – Environment – As with all other pictograms this symbol can be applied to different types of categories. Substances that carry this type of classification are wide ranging, eg organic solvents such as white spirits, salts used in fertilisers and pesticidal, herbicidal and biocidal materials.
GHS02 – Flammable – Multiple types of flammable materials from desensitised explosives to flammable gases, liquids and solids.
Care must be taken when trying to interpret what is actually being communicated – Butane used in aerosol cans such as spray deodorants is an example of extremely flammable gas.
GHS05 – Corrosive – Corrosion to metals, skin and eyes. This pictogram is commonly applied to strong acids and bases such as sulphuric acid and sodium hydroxide.
Various salts and surfactants can be classed as corrosive to the eyes, with a content as low as 1% in a mixture resulting in corrosive effects.
GHS06 – Toxic – Probably the one pictogram which most actively draws attention. Referring to toxic substances applying to 3 possible routes of entry – ingestion, skin or eye contact and inhalation.
An example of a toxic chemical is methanol which is used as an antifreeze in screen washes.
GHS03 – Oxidiser – As with flammable materials, oxidisers can be gases, liquids or solids. Most powerful oxidising agents can cause or intensify fires.
An example of a chemical that this pictogram applies to is Calcium Hypochlorite. This is used as the chlorine source in swimming pools and is similar to domestic bleach.
When thinking about packing your own products, it is important to ensure that the labelling complies with the CLP classifications required for the materials that you are using. If you’d like to speak with one of our Helpful Manufacturing People about product classification or labelling, please contact us here or give us a call on 01405 761746 to talk to our team today.
