Classification labeling packaging GHS
In 2009 a new legislation concerning classification, labelling and packaging (CLP, the EU implementation of the GHS system developed by the UN) was adopted.
This means we are now in a transitional phase, in which the "old" legislation (the Dangerous Substances Directive and the Dangerous Preparations Directive) is still in place, but at the same time a switch will need to be made towards this newly adopted CLP (also referred to as GHS or EU-GHS) Regulation.
Like the current legislation, the proposed Regulation is intended to be primarily a self-classification system for enterprises.
It stipulates that after January 20th 2009, the deadline for substance reclassification is 30 November 2010 and for mixtures 31 May 2015.
Both companies in the EU as well as importing and exporting to the EU will have to change the labelling and classification of all products within these periods both on labels and safety data sheets to be compliant.
The implementation of this new Regulation within your company may require quite a lot of effort, as well as good communication towards clients and employees.
Your clients will suddenly be confronted with Safety Data Sheets and labels which look quite different. Therefore this is the right moment to present your company as a reliable partner in trade by accurate communication about these changes.
Also on your workfloor, the impact will be sizable; there will be a period in which some incoming materials will be labelled according to the old system and others according to the new one.
To ensure a safe working environment for your employees and to prevent confusion or even accidents or delays, a good transitional plan is needed, including training.
To help with this transition, we have developed practical CLP workshops and a CLP helpdesk.
Royal Haskoning can provide excellent advice on the legal requirements regarding the classification, packaging and labelling of your hazardous products. Both legislative and practical requirements are taken into account.
We like to adapt the help offered to the specific needs of your organisation; this need will depend on, amongst other issues, the availability of expert knowledge, manpower, administrative systems and the size of your organisation and budget.
Please feel free to contact us to discuss what support would fit you best.
The labeling largely depends on the hazard classification. Please see how we can help you on that subject.