A new regulation on classification, labelling and packaging

Regulation (EC) No. 1272/2008 on classification, labelling and packaging of substances and mixtures entered into force 20 January 2009, and replaces in a staggered way directives 67/548/EEC and 1999/45/EC within the European Union. The regulation implements the globally harmonised system on classification and labelling within the European Union. This paper provides a short overview of the regulation and how manufacturers and importers should apply the new rules. Annex VI to the regulation contains a list of substances with classification and labelling that is legally binding on the market of the European Union. About a third of these substances/groups of substances are classified as carcinogenic, germ cell mutagenic and/or reproductive toxic.