ECHA Enforcement Project: Inspectors Uncover Failures to Report to Poison Control Centers

According to Article 45 (Notification) of the CLP Regulation, companies that place hazardous mixtures on the market must report information about their composition to the ECHA. This information enables poison control centers to act appropriately in an emergency. However, checks show that companies often fail to comply with this obligation.

As part of an enforcement project, inspectors examined around 1,600 mixtures in 18 countries of the European Economic Area (EEA) between January and June 2025. Most of the mixtures were intended for the consumer market. The most important finding? The companies involved did not report any information to poison control centers for 20% of the hazardous mixtures examined. The forum report with the results appeared on February 11.

Common errors

Some 12% of the mixtures lacked the required Unique Formula Identifier (UFI) Code, and the error rate for product labels reached as high as 15%. The inconsistency of the information in the PCN notification, on the label, and in the safety data sheet (SDS) was striking. For example, in 17% of the mixtures, the information in the PCN notification differed from the data on the SDS, particularly regarding the mixture components and toxicity data.

Urgent need for action

Poison control centers need complete information so that they can respond appropriately in an emergency. That’s why companies have been required to report all hazardous mixtures and include the UFI Code on the label since January 1, 2025. The inspectors wanted to use the review to raise awareness of this obligation among companies.

In two of every three cases of non-compliance, the inspectors issued written warnings. In 5% of cases, a fine was imposed, and in 4%, the public prosecutor’s office was even called in. The inspectors also appeal to industry associations and supervisory authorities to inform companies about this obligation.

Act in good time and avoid legal consequences. We are offering our expert support with all aspects of notification requirements. One of our special services is Third-Party PCN Notification, helping companies outside the EU to comply with their regulatory obligations.

For further support options and other questions, please contact us at sales@kft.de.