▪︎ CLP
CLP Regulation:
ECHA Publishes Guidance on New Hazard Classes
The ECHA has updated its CLP guidelines and, for the first time, included new hazard classes for endocrine disruptors and chemicals with long-term effects. The guidance is an important resource for companies evaluating substances.
Industry demands clarity
Industry has long struggled with the uncertainty of exactly how to apply the classification criteria - especially for endocrine disrupting chemicals. In fact, the need for clarity is urgent. As of May 1, 2025, companies must evaluate and label new substances in light of their endocrine disrupting properties according to EU Regulation 2023/707 (see Chapter 4.3.2.5). The industry also sees problems in the lack of reliable data on substances that have an endocrine disrupting effect.
"Learning-by-doing approach
Given the lack of experience with the risk assessment of substances with endocrine and long-term effects, the ECHA favors a learning-by-doing approach. The Committee for Risk Assessment (RAC), which will issue opinions on endocrine disruptors starting in 2025, will play a key role in this process.
Prerequisites for classification
The guidance covers classification of chemicals with known endocrine-disrupting effects on human health and the environment (category 1) and those suspected of having endocrine-disrupting effects (category 2). A biologically plausible link between endocrine activity and adverse effects should exist. Consequently, all substances of very high concern because of their endocrine-disrupting properties should be classified as category 1 endocrine disruptors according to the CLP Regulation.
What does endocrine-disrupting mean?
Endocrine-disrupting chemicals, also known as endocrine disruptors (EDs), are synthetic substances that mimic the body’s own hormones. They can disorder important developmental processes in the body and damage health. Some of the best-known synthetic substances with endocrine-disrupting effects are bisphenol A or certain phthalates. Surfactants such as nonylphenol or some flame retardants from the group of polybrominated diphenyl ethers and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) can also have a hormone-like effect on the body.
Together with you, we analyze the status quo and plan the necessary steps. We will also advise you on the correct implementation of the labeling requirements. Please feel free to contact us at sales@kft.de.