The European Commission issued Delegated Regulation (EU) 2024/2564, amending Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 concerning the classification, labelling, and packaging of substances and mixtures. This latest update introduces harmonised classifications for several substances and revises the labelling requirements for hazardous chemicals across the EU. The changes, designed to improve health and environmental safety, will come into effect in May 2026.
Overview of CLP Amendments
The new amendment to Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008, also known as the CLP Regulation, adds new substances to the list of hazardous chemicals while updating the classification of others. These updates will become mandatory by 1 May 2026, although businesses are allowed to adopt the new classifications voluntarily before this date.
Substances Affected by the Update
The regulation includes significant changes to the classification of several chemicals, particularly in areas like acute toxicity, carcinogenicity, and environmental hazards. Some of the key substances affected by the regulation include:
- Copper: Now classified under a more generic category concerning specific surface area, affecting the hazard classification of copper in various forms.
- Multi-walled Carbon Nanotubes: Classified as carcinogenic (Carc. 1B) due to the potential for inhalation risks.
- Silver (massive, powder, and nano-sized forms): Now includes classifications for reproductive toxicity and long-term environmental hazards.
- Acetone Oxime: Classified as Carcinogen 1B and also noted for acute toxicity, skin sensitivity, and eye damage.
- Glyphosate: Updated classification includes new categories for eye damage and chronic aquatic toxicity.
Key Hazard Classifications
The revised regulation introduces new hazard classifications for substances based on their risks to human health and the environment. These categories include:
- Acute toxicity
- Carcinogenicity
- Reproductive toxicity
- Skin and eye irritation
- Aquatic toxicity
For example, acetone oxime has been classified as a carcinogen, while formaldehyde is classified for both mutagenicity and carcinogenicity. Hexyl salicylate, commonly found in fragrances, is now listed under reproductive toxicity.
While the updated regulation becomes enforceable by May 2026, companies handling affected substances are encouraged to implement the new classifications as early as possible. This adjustment period allows businesses time to update labelling and packaging in accordance with the new classifications.
