UFI Code Generation Guide: Steps to Generate a UFI Code

When dealing with chemical products in the EU, compliance with safety regulations is essential. One critical requirement is the Unique Formula Identifier (UFI) code. This UFI code helps poison centres quickly identify the exact chemical composition of a product in case of an emergency. Generating a UFI code is a straightforward process, but it requires attention to details and adherence to regulatory guidelines. In this guide, we will walk through the steps to generate a UFI code in the EU, ensuring your products meet the necessary safety standards.

UFI Code Generation Guide: What You Need to Know

The UFI code is a unique alphanumeric code assigned to a specific mixture of chemicals. It is mandatory under the EU CLP (Classification, Labelling and Packaging) regulation. The UFI allows poison centres to access detailed information about the product’s composition quickly, which is crucial for effective medical treatment in case of poisoning incidents.

Before generating a UFI code, you need to have:

• A clear chemical formulation of your product.

• Access to the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) UFI generator tool.

  
  

The UFI code consists of 16 characters, divided into four blocks of four characters each. It is essential to ensure accuracy when entering your product data to avoid errors in the code generation.

Step-by-Step Process to Generate a UFI Code

Generating a UFI code involves several clear steps. Follow these carefully to ensure your product is compliant:

1. Open an ECHA account

   Open a user account on the poison control centres website.

   
   

2. Prepare Your Product Formulation

   Gather detailed information about the chemical composition of your product. This includes all substances and their concentrations.

   
   

3. Access the UFI Generator Tool

   Use the official UFI generator provided by ECHA. This tool is free and user-friendly.

   
   

4. Enter Your Company Code and Product Details

   Input your company code (VAT number - if available) and the product formulation data into the generator. Double-check all entries for accuracy.

   
   

5. Generate the UFI Code

   The tool will create a unique 16-character UFI code for your product. Save this code securely.

   
   

6. Submit Product Information to Poison Centres  

   Provide the detailed product composition, first aid instructions, classification of the product and substance, and UFI code to the EU poison centre as required by regulation.

   
   

7. Label Your Product

   Include the UFI code on your product label in a clear and legible format. This is a legal requirement for products placed on the market.

   
   

By following these steps, you ensure your chemical products are traceable and compliant with EU safety regulations.

How to get an UFI number in FDA?

While the EU have specific regulations for UFI codes, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not require a UFI code for chemical products. However, companies exporting to the US should be aware of other regulatory requirements such as the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) and the Hazard Communication Standard (HCS).

If your business operates internationally, it is important to understand the differences in regulatory frameworks. For the US, ensure compliance with FDA and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations.

Practical Tips for Managing UFI Codes Efficiently

Managing UFI codes can become complex if you have multiple products or formulations. Here are some practical recommendations:

• Maintain a Central Database

Keep a detailed record of all your UFI codes linked to their respective product formulations. This helps in quick retrieval and updates.

• Regularly Review Formulations

Any change in the chemical composition requires generating a new UFI code. Schedule periodic reviews to ensure all codes are up to date.

• Train Your Team

Ensure that your regulatory and labelling teams understand the importance of UFI codes and the process to generate them.

• Stay Updated on Regulations

EU chemical regulations can evolve. Keep informed about any changes to UFI requirements or related safety standards.

Why Accurate UFI Code Generation Matters

Accurate UFI code generation is not just a regulatory formality. It plays a vital role in:

• Enhancing Consumer Safety

In emergencies, poison centres rely on the UFI to provide precise medical advice.

• Avoiding Legal Penalties

Non-compliance with UFI labelling can lead to fines and product recalls.

• Facilitating Market Access

Proper UFI labelling ensures your products can be sold without restrictions in the EU markets.

• Building Trust with Partners

Demonstrating compliance shows your commitment to safety and quality, strengthening business relationships.

For businesses looking to expand or maintain their presence in the EU chemical market, understanding how to generate ufi code is a crucial step. It simplifies regulatory compliance and supports safer product management.

Moving Forward with UFI Compliance

Generating and managing UFI codes is a manageable task when approached systematically. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure your chemical products meet EU regulatory requirements efficiently. Remember to keep your product data accurate, label clearly, and submit information promptly to poison centres.

If you need assistance navigating these regulations or want to streamline your compliance processes, consider partnering with experts who specialise in chemical safety and regulatory affairs. This approach will help you focus on your core business while ensuring your products are safe and compliant.

By prioritising UFI code generation and compliance, you position your business for success in the competitive chemical market. Stay proactive, stay informed, and keep your products safe for everyone.

If you need help with editing UFI codes and PCN notifications, we are the right place to go. Contact us at info@chem-consulting.si for an informative offer.