On 31 December 2008, Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 or "CLP" Regulation  (Classification, Packaging and Labeling) was published in the European Official Journal.

This new system of classification and labeling will result to show progressive new data on the labels of chemicals: new hazard pictograms, hazard statements (H Phrases), precautionary statements (P Phrases) and signal word (Danger or Warning).

The 30th and 31st adapting Directive 67/548/EEC relating to the classification, packaging and labeling of dangerous substances, respectively published in August 2008 and January 2009, are applicable from 1st June 2009.
Annex I to Directive 67/548/EEC contains a list of dangerous substances, together with particulars of the classification and labelling of each substance. That list needs to be updated to include further notified new substances and further existing substances, as well as to adapt certain entries to technical progress. In addition, it is necessary, in that Annex, to delete entries for certain substances.

At the same time Annex I to Directive 67/548/EEC has been repealed by Regulation CLP who did not take into account the 30th and 31st ATP. The European Commission said that the 31st and 30th adaptation of Directive 67/548/EEC can be applied pending the publication of an adaptation of the 1st CLP Regulation, which is scheduled for autumn 2009 which will take into account substances Annex I to the 31st and 30th adaptations.

Information on the labeling

Nine hazard pictograms may be allocated according to the hazard categories (for example: flammable liquids) and hazard categories (for example: category 1, 2 or 3).

The signal word "DANGER" or "WARNING" indicates to the user, the existence of a potential hazard.
The hazard statements (H phrases) describe the nature of hazards.
The precautionary statements (P phrases) describe the various precautions to take in contact with hazardous materials.

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