The Unique Formula Identifier (UFI) code is essential for ensuring emergency responders have accurate information. Wondering how this 16-digit code works and why it matters? Here’s a breakdown of UFI codes, their creation, and how they integrate with your product labels and safety measures.
1. What is a UFI code, and what is its purpose?
- The unique formula identifier, known by its acronym UFI, is a 16-digit code that is required on the label of your products that contain a hazardous mixture. Its main purpose is to create a clear connection between the product and the information you’ve provided in the PCN dossier.
- It is primarily used by poison centres during emergencies. For instance, in an emergency situation, a poison centre operator can use the UFI, read directly from the product label along with its trade name, to accurately identify the product involved in the incident.
2. How is the UFI code generated?
- A submitter can generate a UFI code with its own tax number. Tool for generating UFI codes is provided by ECHA – UFI Generator.
- To create a UFI for your mixture, use your company’s VAT number and a numerical formulation number specific to the mixture. The VAT number ensures each UFI is unique, while the formulation number should be between 0 and 268,435,255. It’s important not to reuse the same formulation number with the same VAT number for mixtures with different compositions.
3. Who is responsible for generating and assigning the UFI code?
- The responsibility for generating and assigning the UFI code lies with the manufacturer or importer of the mixture.
4. Where must the UFI code be displayed?
- The UFI must be printed on or affixed to the label of all products containing hazardous mixtures. Alternatively, it can be indicated on the product’s packaging, as long as it’s near the other label elements. For unpackaged mixtures, the UFI should be included in section 1.1 of the safety data sheet.
- Additionally, for mixtures used at industrial sites, the UFI can be included in section 1.1 of the safety data sheet as an alternative.
5. Can one UFI code be used for multiple products?
- Yes, as long as the mixture composition remains the same, you can use the same UFI on the label of your products across all EEA countries.
- You can also use the same UFI for products within the same country, even if they are marketed under different trade names.
- However, it is crucial to provide the correct UFI to poison centres in each relevant market area to ensure that emergency responders can clearly identify the product.
6. Is it possible to change a UFI code once it has been assigned?
- No, once a UFI code is assigned, it cannot be changed. The UFI should always correspond with the composition. If corrections are necessary due to changes in the product formulation or other significant reasons, you would need to request a new UFI code - criteria upon which you need to create a new UFI code are listed here, here and here.
7. What happens if a product's formulation changes?
- If you make significant changes to a product’s formulation, you'll need to generate a new UFI code and submit a new PCN notification.
- For hazardous ingredients, you can tweak concentrations within certain ranges without needing a new PCN:
- 0% - 2.5%: You can adjust by ±0.5%
- 2.5% - 10%: You can adjust by ±1%
- 10% - 25%: You can adjust by ±2.5%
- 25% - 100%: You can adjust by ±5%
- If your changes fall outside these ranges, you’ll need to submit a new PCN notification.
8. Is a UFI code required for all chemical mixtures?
- A UFI code is required for all hazardous mixtures placed on the market within the EU, classified for health or physical hazards.
9. How should the UFI code be formatted on the label?
- The acronym ‘UFI’ (which remains the same in all EU languages and alphabets and should not be translated) must be displayed in capital letters. It should be followed by a colon and a 16-character alphanumeric code. This code is formatted into four blocks, each separated by a hyphen.
UFI: XXXX-YYYY-ZZZZ-WWWW
10. Are there any specific regulations regarding the size of the UFI code on the label?
- Although there are no specific requirements for font type or size, the UFI must be clearly visible and read-able on the product label.
11. How does the UFI code relate to Poison Centre notifications?
- The UFI code connects a specific mixture’s composition to its corresponding PCN submission. When a product with hazardous chemicals is reported to a Poison Centre, the UFI is included in the notification to help Poison Centers quickly and accurately identify the mixture in an emergency.
12. Can the same UFI code be used across different EU countries?
- Yes, the same UFI code can be used across multiple markets.
The UFI code might seem like a small detail, but it is a big deal for safety and compliance.
By making sure your UFI code is correct and properly displayed, you are helping to ensure that in an emergency, the right information gets to the right people quickly.
If you are ever in doubt or need a hand with UFI codes, there are plenty of resources and experts out there ready to help. Stay safe and keep those codes up to date.
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