On June 19, 2024, the European Commission adopted Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2024/2564, which introduces significant amendments to Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 concerning the classification, labelling, and packaging (CLP) of hazardous substances and mixtures. This regulation applies across the European Economic Area (EEA) and focuses on ensuring that the classification and labelling of substances are updated based on the latest scientific assessments.

1. Purpose of the Regulation

The purpose of the 2024/2564 Regulation is to revise the harmonised classification and labelling of certain hazardous substances, ensuring that both human health and environmental protection are upheld. This amendment introduces new classifications, updates existing ones, and in some cases, deletes outdated entries. The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) plays a critical role in this process, assessing proposals and issuing opinions through its Committee for Risk Assessment (RAC).

2. Key Substances Affected by the Regulation

Several substances are impacted by the new amendments, reflecting the latest scientific evaluations. Some of the key substances and their revised classifications include:

• Multi-walled Carbon Nanotubes (MWCNT): Classified as carcinogenic when inhaled (Carc. 1B), based on their hazardous effects on the lungs.
• Acetone Oxime: Now classified as a carcinogen (Carc. 1B) with additional acute toxicity (H312) and skin sensitisation hazards (H317).
• Silver Nanoparticles: Newly classified due to environmental toxicity, posing acute and chronic risks to aquatic life (Aquatic Acute 1, Aquatic Chronic 1).

These updates ensure the safe handling, storage, and transport of these substances, addressing both occupational and environmental risks.

3. Updates and Industry Impact

For businesses dealing with the substances listed in the new amendments, significant changes are expected in terms of compliance. These include:

• Product Labelling: Companies must update their labels to reflect new hazard pictograms and statements for newly classified substances like acetone oxime and silver nanoparticles.
• Safety Data Sheets (SDS): Updated SDSs must include the latest hazard classifications and safety precautions, ensuring workers are adequately informed of potential risks.
• Compliance Timeline: The regulation allows suppliers to apply the new classifications voluntarily before the mandatory compliance date of May 1, 2026. This transition period is designed to provide flexibility while ensuring that suppliers gradually adopt these updates without disrupting their operations.

4. Benefits of Early Compliance

Early compliance with these updated regulations demonstrates a company’s commitment to safety and environmental protection. Adopting the new classifications and labelling requirements well in advance of the 2026 deadline helps businesses avoid penalties, build trust with regulatory bodies, and ensure the safety of their workforce and the environment.

The 2024/2564 Regulation represents a critical update to the EU’s chemical safety framework. With its focus on new scientific assessments and the harmonisation of hazardous substance classifications, this regulation enhances protection for both human health and the environment. Businesses should take proactive steps to align with these changes by updating their product labelling, SDS, and employee training programs.

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