Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 on the classification, labelling and packaging of substances and mixtures lays down the harmonised criteria for the classification of substances and mixtures, as well as the requirements for the labelling and packaging of hazardous substances and mixtures. Annex VI to the aforementioned Regulation sets out the harmonised classification and labelling elements for, amongst other things, plant protection products. In addition to the graphic representations (pictograms), this classification comprises the following elements:
- Class:
- Category
- Signal word
- Category
In order to improve the legibility and thus the comprehensibility of the harmonised classification and labelling of plant protection products, the class, category and signal word will in future be listed on a separate line in authorisation notices and, subsequently, on the labelling of the plant protection products. This is intended to prevent any misunderstandings arising from the often similar or identical-sounding designations of the class and the category.
An example of the revised structure of the harmonised classification and labelling in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 is as follows:
| Class: | Respiratory or skin sensitisation |
| Category: | Category 1, skin sensitisation |
| Pictogram: | GHS07 |
| Signal word: | Warning |
The new presentation does not result in any changes to the scope of labelling or classification. Existing authorisations will be gradually converted to the new presentation of the harmonised classification and labelling as part of authorisation amendment or renewal procedures. There is therefore no immediate need for action on the part of holders of existing authorisations.