Labeling for chemicals: what does the legislation say?

Nowadays, accuracy in chemical labeling is not only a good practice but a regulated necessity. Industrial companies, particularly those in the chemical industry, must adhere to strict regulations to ensure safety and adequate information. Labels for these products, far beyond simple identification, serve as an information bridge between manufacturer and end user and are essential for communicating risks, precautions and safety measures. For companies, understanding and enforcing labeling regulations is not just a legal obligation, but a key component in maintaining the trust of business partners and ensuring business continuity. In this article we will explore the vital role of chemical labels, the regulations that must be met, and the essential information that must be included.

Index

1. The Role of Labels for Chemical Products

2. Regulations for Chemical Product Labeling

3. Mandatory Information on the Label

4. The Importance of the UFI Code

5. Conclusions

1. The Role of Labels for Chemical Products

Labels for chemical products play a crucial role in safety and information. They provide essential details regarding composition, proper usage, potential risks, and first aid measures in case of an incident. Clear and regulation-compliant labeling not only helps protect users but also facilitates safe handling and storage of the products.

Today, thanks in part to new regulatory provisions, the label can also extend into a digital format, making additional information accessible via QR codes or online systems.

2. Regulations for Chemical Product Labeling

What is the CLP regulation and why is it so important

The Classification, Labeling and Packaging (CLP) Regulation is the European legislation that establishes criteria for the classification, labeling and packaging of chemical substances and mixtures. It has been in force since 2008 and recently updated by Regulation (EU) 2024/2865 in October 2024.

CLP ensures that chemical hazards are communicated in a uniform and understandable way throughout the European Union. This regulation applies to manufacturers, importers, downstream users, and distributors, and is critical to occupational safety, environmental protection, and the free movement of products in the European market.

Chemical labeling regulations are established to ensure that all critical information is conveyed effectively. This update introduces new hazard classes-such as endocrine disrupters, PBT/vPvB, and PMT/vPvM-and establishes faster timeframes for updating labels when there is a change in a substance's classification (from 18 to 6 months).

Another notable change is the introduction of digital labeling: companies and suppliers can now also integrate mandatory information via QR codes or digital links to support the physical label.

Finally, the regulation clarifies obligations for online and distance sales, requiring hazard information to be clearly visible before purchase, even in the case of B2B sales. To obtain industrial labels that comply and are up-to-date with these regulations, visit our Industrial Labels page.

Other Key Legislation: REACH

Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) in the European Union

REACH is a European regulation that aims to improve the protection of human health and the environment through appropriate identification of the inherent hazards of chemicals. This regulation requires companies to register chemicals and provide extensive information on their safety. The information collected must be communicated throughout the supply chain, including product labeling. Understanding the requirements of REACH and their application in labeling is critical to ensure that all stakeholders are aware of the risks and precautionary measures associated with each chemical.

Updates and Future Trends

Chemical labeling regulations are constantly evolving, reflecting new scientific findings and policy changes, as well as a growing emphasis on sustainability and corporate responsibility. Staying current with these evolutions not only ensures continued compliance, but can also offer competitive advantages, enabling companies to anticipate market changes and, as a result, adapt their labeling and chemical management strategies.

Effectively navigating through this complex web of regulations requires in-depth knowledge, attention to detail and an ongoing commitment to update and adapt. Companies that excel in this aspect not only ensure safety and compliance, but also enhance their reputation and the trust of their customers and partners.

3. Mandatory Information on the Label

When it comes to chemicals, the label is not simply a business card, but a key source of vital safety information. Below are the essential elements, updated according to Regulation (EU) 2024/2865:

• Product Name: This is not just the brand name, but often includes technical information specifying the exact version or formula, which is especially useful in professional environments where precision is crucial.

• Ingredient List: Critical not only for the users but also for health and safety authorities. Ingredient information supports transparency and enables informed risk management.

• Hazard Pictograms: These graphical symbols provide instant recognition of the main hazards associated with the product, offering visual communication that transcends language barriers and ensures immediate understanding.

• Hazard Warnings and Precautionary Advice: These details outline specific risks associated with the product and provide guidance on how to avoid accidents, manage spills, or react to exposure, key components for user safety.

• UFI Code: This code, which we’ll delve into in the next section, is a new regulatory addition essential for more efficient emergency management.

• Emergency Number: A dedicated telephone number that can be called in case of emergency, providing vital information on the measures to take. It is a critical point of contact for situations requiring immediate responses.

• Content Quantity (for certain products): This section provides clear information about the quantity of the substance or mixture in the container. It is particularly important for certain types of products, contributing to informed management of the contained substances.

• Supplier Identification: This includes essential details of the manufacturing or supplying company, such as name, address, and phone number. These details are crucial for facilitating direct communication in case of need.

• Additional Information: This section includes extra details that the manufacturer deems useful or that are required by specific regulations. This could include production date, batch number for traceability, or specific usage instructions. This information ensures maximum clarity and regulatory compliance.

Added to these is now the ability to supplement the physical label with digital content, accessible via QR codes or links. This allows additional or detailed information to be provided in a clear, accessible manner and in multiple languages, without overloading the printed label.

In addition, for certain product classes or reduced formats, there is the possibility of reduced labeling, as long as the full information is made available online according to the required standards. This information is not just a formality, but key tools for ensuring safety throughout the product life cycle, from production to use to disposal.

Summary table on key elements of chemical labeling:

Element	Mandatory	Operational notes
Product trade name	✔	Must match the name in the SDS and official documents.
Chemical identity of ingredients	✔	Mandatory for hazardous substances.
CLP pictograms	✔	Must appear on a white background, clearly visible, without visual interference.
Signal words (e.g. “Danger”)	✔	Determined according to the classification.
Hazard statements (H)	✔	Coded according to the EU harmonised system.
Precautionary statements (P)	✔	Must be relevant and not excessive.
UFI code	✔ (for hazardous mixtures)	Must appear near the supplier’s contact information.
Supplier details	✔	Name, address, and telephone number.
Quantity of contents	✔ (for consumer use)	Mandatory for retail; recommended for professional use.
Additional information	Optional	E.g. batch number, production date, instructions for use, QR code for digital label.

4. Importance of the UFI Code

The UFI (Unique Formula Identifier) code has introduced a new dimension in managing the safety of chemical products. Here’s why it has become such an important element:

• Uniqueness: Each chemical product formula has its own unique UFI. This means that, even with thousands of products, it is possible to precisely trace the specific formula of a product.

• Rapid Response: In the event of an incident, the ability to quickly identify the product can significantly reduce response time and improve safety measures.

• Clear Communication: The UFI eliminates ambiguity. There are no doubts about the type of product being used, which is crucial in emergency situations where every second counts.

• International Harmonization: With the increasing adoption of this system, the UFI becomes a globally recognized standard, making it easier to manage chemical products on an international scale.

5. Conclusions

In conclusion, chemical labeling is an increasingly complex and strategic responsibility. Labels not only communicate vital information, but also ensure safety, traceability, and compliance with evolving regulations, such as the latest update of CLP introduced by Regulation (EU) 2024/2865.

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