In December 2008, European Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 on Classification, Labelling and Packaging of Substances and Mixtures (CLP Regulation) was introduced in the EU to align previous EU legislation on classification, labelling and packaging of chemicals with the UN’s Globally Harmonised System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS). The objective of this regulation is to establish a global system for communication in the workplace addressing classification of chemicals, labelling, and SDS (Safety Data Sheets). The CLP Regulation is being implemented in stages; all substances will be in line with legislation by the 1 December 2010 and all mixtures will be completed by 1 June 2015 but can be implemented earlier.
Find out more about the CLP Regulation.
Find out more about GHS.
Cylinder Labelling
To align our cylinder labels (‘banana’ labels) to GHS you will see the following modifications:
- Red diamonds around the hazard pictograms
- The GHS Signal Word will appear
- The risk and safety phrases will be replaced by hazard and precautionary statements.
Previous label:
New GHS label:
See Related Links for our EIGA Labelling Table for new pictograms/Signal Words/Hazard & Precautionary statements and EIGA guide.
Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
To align our Safety Data Sheets to GHS you will see the below alterations to new revisions of our SDS:
- Product uses and PPE will be specified on the Safety Data Sheet
- The new SDS provides key information on a substance or mixture
- Identified uses and relevant exposure scenarios will be outlined
- An eSDS is an extension to include the addition of risk management measures and exposure scenarios contained in an annex to the SDS.
The latest GHS revisions can be found on our Safety Data Sheets page.
REACH
There is an additional European Regulation that was brought into force on the 1st June 2007, this regulation covers all substances (chemicals) that are manufactured or imported into Europe – each legal entity must register. Registration requires data on the effects of substances on humans and the environment and the compilation of a comprehensive dossier, if the substance in question is not registered then it is illegal for it to be used and marketed. There are some exemptions to the regulation:
- Naturally occurring substances (O2, N2, Argon, H2, CO2, natural gas and LPG (propane))
- Gases for medical or biocidal use are exempt.
BOC have pre-registered a number of substances, approximately 80+.
For further information please access About REACH.
