Classification, Labelling and Packaging Regulation (retained EU law)
Retained EU Regulation 1272/2008•Status:CurrentAt a Glance
- Date Enacted
- 16 December 2008
- Enforcing Body
- Health and Safety Executive (HSE)
- Maximum Penalty
- Unlimited
- Jurisdiction
- England, Wales, Scotland
- Citation
- Retained EU Regulation 1272/2008
- Status
- Current
What This Means for You
The Classification, Labelling and Packaging (CLP) Regulation (retained EU law, specifically Retained EU Regulation 1272/2008) is a crucial piece of UK legislation that ensures the safe handling, storage, and use of hazardous substances. It adopts the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS) at a European level. Its primary purpose is to protect workers, consumers, and the environment from the risks associated with hazardous chemicals by providing a standardized system for identifying and communicating hazards. The CLP Regulation mandates that suppliers classify, label, and package substances and mixtures according to its criteria before placing them on the market. This directly impacts workplace safety signage by requiring that signs clearly display pictograms, hazard statements, and precautionary statements as defined by CLP. These signs must be prominently displayed in areas where hazardous substances are stored or used, providing immediate and understandable warnings to employees and visitors. The regulation aims to improve hazard communication compared to the previous CHIP regulations, leading to a safer working environment through better awareness and preventative measures. It covers a wide range of chemicals, from industrial solvents to cleaning products, making it relevant to almost all workplaces.
Key Provisions
Article 17Labelling requirementsDefines GHS pictograms, signal words, hazard statements
Defines GHS pictograms, signal words, hazard statements
Article 17 - Labelling requirements
Defines GHS pictograms, signal words, hazard statements
Signage Requirements
- Hazard pictograms must be displayed clearly and prominently on safety signs where hazardous substances are present.
- Signs must include hazard statements (H-statements) and precautionary statements (P-statements) relevant to the specific hazards.
- Signage must be durable and resistant to environmental conditions in the area where it is displayed.
- Signs must be easily visible and legible from a safe distance.
- Signage must be consistent with the CLP classification of the substance or mixture.
- Where multiple hazards exist, signs must display all relevant pictograms and warnings.
- Signage must be supplemented with appropriate training and information for employees.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Failure to correctly classify substances and mixtures according to CLP criteria.
- Incorrect or missing hazard pictograms on safety signs.
- Use of outdated or non-compliant signage based on superseded legislation (e.g., CHIP).
- Inadequate signage in areas where hazardous substances are stored or used.
- Illegible or poorly maintained signage.
- Lack of employee training on the meaning of CLP pictograms and hazard warnings.
Practical Next Steps
- 1Conduct a thorough risk assessment to identify all hazardous substances in the workplace.
- 2Ensure all substances and mixtures are correctly classified and labelled according to CLP.
- 3Use compliant safety signage that clearly displays the relevant pictograms, hazard statements, and precautionary statements.
- 4Provide comprehensive training to employees on the hazards associated with the substances they work with and the meaning of safety signage.
- 5Regularly inspect and maintain safety signage to ensure it is legible and in good condition.
- 6Keep up-to-date with any changes or amendments to the CLP Regulation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the CLP Regulation?
What are hazard pictograms?
Where can I find more information about CLP?
Official Resources
Related Regulations
Safety Signs Regulations 1996
Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996
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Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005
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Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022
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View Full DetailsCOSHH 2002
Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002
Requires employers to control exposure to hazardous substances. Includes requirements for storage area marking.
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