RegulationsIn force (EC No 1272/2008)

CLP: Classification, Labelling and Packaging Regulation (1272/2008)

The EU regulation that classifies, labels and packages hazardous chemicals, implementing the global GHS system and underpinning which substances become regulated elsewhere.

Issuer
European Union / ECHA
Updated
2026-06-12

Overview

CLP is the EU's rulebook for chemical hazard labelling. It decides how dangerous a substance is and how that danger must be communicated on labels and packaging.

What it does

  • It implements the global GHS (Globally Harmonised System) in the EU.
  • It assigns hazard classes, for example carcinogenic, flammable, or toxic to reproduction.
  • It sets labelling rules, including pictograms, signal words, hazard (H) and precautionary (P) statements, as well as packaging requirements.
  • Annex VI holds the harmonised classifications that all suppliers must apply.
The quiet engine behind the headlines

CLP itself is not usually what a product team tracks day-to-day, but its hazard classifications are the input that drives the lists you do track. A CMR classification under CLP is often the first step toward a substance becoming an SVHC or being restricted.

How it relates to other topics

CLP

Decides how hazardous a substance is and how to label it.

REACH / RoHS / POP

Decide what to do about hazardous substances, whether to register, restrict, authorise or ban, often using CLP classifications as the trigger.

Note: this is general educational information from the Pareo team, not legal advice. Verify classifications and Annex VI entries against ECHA and the consolidated regulation.

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Related entries

EUchemicalsGHShazardlabelling