Exceptionally the CLP classification and labelling criteria can lead to unfamiliar or unexpected hazard pictograms on the labels of certain chemical products compared to those required under CHIP.
This results from differences in the detailed criteria for classification and labelling in certain hazard classes between CHIP and CLP. It does not mean that the chemical product is any more – or less – hazardous than it was before.
An example of where this may arise is the labelling of particular cleaning products that are hazardous in contact with eyes.
Old CHIP 'Irritant' hazard symbol
Under CHIP, cleaning products such as kitchen cleaner, carpet cleaner, rinse aid or washing up liquid classified as Irritant, with risk phrase R41: Risk of serious damage to eyes, were labelled with the irritant symbol. The same pictogram was used for products classified with the risk phrase R36: Irritating to eyes.
Example of old irritant symbol
New CLP 'Corrosive' pictogram and the Exclamation Mark
Under CLP there is a clearer distinction between the hazard labelling for products classified as serious eye damage (category 1, irreversible effects on the eye), and eye irritation (category 2, reversible effects on the eye). Products classified as category 1 are labelled with the hazard statement H318: Causes serious eye damage (equivalent to R41 under CHIP) and the corrosive pictogram.
Products classified as category 2 are labelled with H319: Causes serious eye irritation (equivalent to R36 under CHIP), and the exclamation mark pictogram.
Example of new Corrosive pictogram
Example of new Exclamation Mark pictogram
Where to go for advice
If you are in any doubt about the hazards in any of the products that you use, contact the supplier (the contact details will also appear on the label) and clarify that the precautions you were taking before are still the right ones. In most cases they will be and you can continue to use the product as before.
For more information, please see:
- Read the Label - AISE website
- The Globally Harmonised System and Chemical Regulation: Challenges for the Cleaning Industry - Cleaning British Council website