The CLP Regulation is moving toward simplification - Important updates
The European Commission has proposed revisions that aim to reduce complexity and ease administrative burdens for companies. Here’s an overview of what’s planned: The European Commission has presented a proposal for a revised version of the CLP Regulation (EC) No. 1272/2008, which specifically aims to simplify and reduce the burden on companies. These changes are intended to address the complexities of the current regulations, which place a heavy administrative burden on both industry and authorities. The amendments are designed to minimise key problems – particularly regarding labelling, supplier obligations and advertising requirements for hazardous substances – and bring the regulations more in line with practical realities.
One key improvement concerns the information on labelling. It will be sufficient to provide ‘digital contact details’ such as a telephone number or online contact option. The mandatory full postal address of the supplier will no longer be required. This will create greater flexibility, particularly for international supply chains.
The update requirements are also being softened. The originally stipulated rigid six-month deadline to update all labels following classification or labelling changes had proven to be practically impossible to implement. The new draft proposes that the deadline only begins once all the necessary data is available in full. This gives suppliers realistic and manageable time frames for implementation.
In terms of advertisements of hazardous substances and mixtures, it is specified that labelling requirements shall only apply to advertisements aimed at the general public. These requirements shall not apply to B2B communication, which will significantly reduce the burden on companies.
Particularly relevant is the postponement of the application deadlines: Regulation (EU) 2024/2865, whose requirements were originally supposed to apply from 1 January 2028, is to be mitigated by the new proposal with extended transition periods. This would give companies more time to gradually adapt internal processes, labels and documentation.
Overall, the European Commission's proposal aims to reduce the administrative burden significantly and make the CLP rules more practical without compromising the level of protection for humans and the environment.