The CLP regulation sets the rules for classification and labelling of chemicals. It aims to determine whether a substance or mixture displays properties that lead to a classification as hazardous.
CLP itself does not set information requirements (except for determining physical properties). The information requirements laid down in REACH will however, ensure availability of much data.
Once such properties are identified and the substance or mixture is classified accordingly, manufacturers, importers, downstream users and distributors of substances or mixtures, as well as producers and importers of certain specific articles (explosive articles which are subject to classification according to Part 2 of Annex I to CLP) should communicate the identified hazards of these substances or mixtures to other actors in the supply chain, including to consumers.
The hazard of a substance or mixture is the potential for that substance or mixture to cause harm. It depends on the intrinsic properties of the substance or mixture. In this connection hazard evaluation is the process by which information about the intrinsic properties of a substance or mixture is assessed to determine their potential to cause harm. In cases where the nature and severity of an identified hazard meets the classification criteria, hazard classification is the assignment of a standardised description of this hazard of a substance or a mixture causing harm to human health or the environment.
Hazard labelling allows for the communication of hazard classification to the user of a substance or mixture, to alert the user to the presence of a hazard and the need to avoid exposures and the resulting risks.
CLP sets general packaging standards, in order to ensure the safe supply of hazardous substances and mixtures.