EU’s Classification, Labelling and Packaging Regulations (known as CLP).
CLP (European Regulations (EC) No 1272/2008 on Classification, Labelling and Packaging of substances and mixtures) came into force in 2009 (January) in all EU Member States, which also includes the UK. It was agreed by the EUL (European Union Level) that as from the 1st June 2015 these rules would apply including the UK. EN15494 provides some standardized fire safety warnings that most manufacturers choose to include, communicating perhaps the greatest risk posed by a candle.
CLP only applies to Home Fragrancing Products (Not – Cosmetics) which are classed under separate rules. CLP effects the following Products: - Reed Diffusers, Wax Melts, Scented Sachets, Room Spray, Candle etc. (Including any other products that may fall into this category)
Many fragrances ingredients, are known eye/skin irritants, skin sensitizers or are environmentally hazardous substances, if present at concentrations above the cut-off values listed in section 16 on the SDS, they trigger health or environmental warning statements and/or pictograms which should then be clearly stated on any labelling/packaging.
Small Packaging Exemptions
CLP provides certain exemptions for substances and mixtures contained in packaging that is small (typically less than 125ml) or is otherwise difficult to label.
The exemptions allow the supplier to omit the hazard and/or precautionary statements or the pictograms from the label elements normally required under CLP.
Please Note: - The information provided is based on our understanding of the New CLP Legislation so far. We have tried to simplify as much as we can for your understanding, we will continue to update, as we gain further in-depth information on any additional requirements.
What is IFRA?
The International Fragrance Association (IFRA) is the global representative body of the fragrance industry. It represents the collective interests of the industry and promotes the safe use of fragrances. The Association was founded in 1973. IFRA’s head office is based in Geneva, Switzerland and its operations centre in Brussels, Belgium. Its members are 8 multinational companies (known as 'Regular Members') and 21 national associations, covering 23 countries. There are 8 'Supporting Members' from countries where IFRA does not have a national association.
What are the IFRA standards?
The fragrance industry has developed a system to manage the safe use of fragrance: the IFRA Standards.
The rules are developed in partnership with members and other stakeholders in a transparent process overseen by independent experts.
IFRA periodically issue “Amendments” to the IFRA standards, which is guided by the latest scientific evidence to assess the wide range of fragrance ingredients, referred to as “The perfumers Palette” IFRA sets the Maximum does of all natural & synthetic fragrance materials in the finished product.
The amendments can result in the removal or restrictions in use of commonly used fragrance ingredients.
Difference between IFRA & CLP
IFRA Standards and the CLP Regulation are separate. IFRA produce IFRA Standards which ban, restrict, or set criteria for the use of certain fragrance ingredients, to ensure the safe use of fragrance for consumers. Adhering to IFRA standards is mandatory for IFRA members only.
The CLP Regulation ensure that fragranced products (excluding cosmetics) are classified, labelled, and packaged in a consistent way so that the hazards of the products are clearly conveyed to consumers.