Ensuring the safety of consumer products is paramount, and the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) is taking significant steps to protect consumers from chemical hazards. One crucial aspect of this effort involves the proper classification, labelling, and packaging of hazardous mixtures. These mixtures, commonly found in products like air fresheners and electronic cigarettes, must be appropriately managed to safeguard both consumers and children. Important element in this regulatory framework is also the use of UFI codes, which play a vital role in product safety.
New EU-Wide Project: REF-14
On June 17, 2024, ECHA’s Enforcement Forum announced the REF-14 project, a new EU-wide initiative aimed at checking the compliance of hazardous mixtures in consumer products. This project will focus on products such as nicotine products containing acutely toxic substances and air fresheners with sensitising or irritant ingredients. These inspections will ensure that products are correctly classified, labelled, and packaged, thereby protecting human health.
Why UFI Codes Matter?
UFI (Unique Formula Identifier) codes are essential in this context. These 16-character alphanumeric codes are required on the labels of products containing hazardous mixtures. They provide a unique link between the product and its formulation, ensuring that precise information is available in case of an emergency. This helps poison centres quickly identify the chemical composition of a product, which is critical for providing appropriate medical advice.
Key Focus Areas for Inspections
Inspectors will examine several aspects to ensure compliance with the Classification, Labelling, and Packaging (CLP) regulation. This includes verifying that products are correctly classified and labelled, and that they have child-resistant fastenings if necessary. Moreover, notifications to poison centres and safety data sheets of the mixtures will be scrutinized to ensure they meet all regulatory requirements.
We have already written about the use of child-safe closures, as well as about our safety data sheets services.
Timeline and Implementation
The REF-14 project is set to be prepared in 2025, with inspections expected to commence in 2026. This timeline allows ample preparation for both enforcement authorities and suppliers to align with the regulatory requirements.
Conclusion
The REF-14 project underscores the critical importance of proper classification and labelling of hazardous mixtures in consumer products. By focusing on UFI codes and other regulatory requirements, the ECHA aims to enhance consumer safety and ensure that products on the market are safe to use. These initiatives reflect a broader commitment to maintaining high safety standards and protecting public health across the EU.
By staying informed and compliant, businesses can contribute to a safer environment and foster trust with consumers. The upcoming inspections and transparency initiatives will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in achieving these goals.
SOURCE: ECHA
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