You're probably familiar with the standard H (hazard) and P (precautionary) statements from the GHS classification system if you’re working with chemicals.
These labels are essential for communicating potential hazards and safety precautions.
But did you know that in the European Union and the European Economic Area, there's an additional layer of labelling known as EUH sentences?
EUH sentences, outlined in Annex II of Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 on classification, labelling and packaging of substances and mixtures (the CLP Regulation), serve as supplemental hazard information that provides extra guidance for specific substances and mixtures.
These sentences help address additional risks that may not be fully covered by standard hazard labels, ensuring more comprehensive communication about the dangers certain chemicals may pose.
Key EUH sentences specified in the CLP regulation:
Let’s break down some common EUH sentences into physical and health-related properties, along with specific rules for labelling of certain mixtures.
Supplemental hazard information (physical properties)
- EUH014: "Reacts violently with water."
- EUH018: "In use, may form flammable/explosive vapour-air mixture."
- EUH019: "May form explosive peroxides."
- EUH044: "Risk of explosion if heated under confinement."
Supplemental hazard information (health properties)
- EUH029: "Contact with water liberates toxic gas."
- EUH031: "Contact with acids liberates toxic gas."
- EUH032: "Contact with acids liberates very toxic gas."
- EUH066: "Repeated exposure may cause skin dryness or cracking."
- EUH070: "Toxic by eye contact."
- EUH071: "Corrosive to the respiratory tract."
Special rules for certain mixtures
In addition to general hazards, some mixtures require special EUH sentences:
- Lead-containing mixtures: "Contains lead. Should not be used on surfaces liable to be chewed or sucked by children" (EUH201).
- Mixtures containing cyanoacrylates: "Danger. Bonds skin and eyes in seconds" (EUH202).
- Mixtures with isocyanates: "Contains isocyanates. May produce an allergic reaction. " (EUH204)
- Mixtures with epoxy constituents: "Contains epoxy constituents. May produce an allergic reaction" (EUH205).
- Chlorine-based cleaners: "Warning! Do not use together with other products. May release dangerous gases (chlorine)" (EUH206).
These examples highlight how EUH sentences provide specific guidance to ensure users are fully informed about the unique hazards posed by different chemical formulations.
Why EUH labelling matters
EUH sentences may seem like just another layer of regulation, but they play a critical role in enhancing safety and compliance.
By providing extra details about risks, especially those not immediately obvious from standard hazard labels, EUH sentences help prevent accidents, promote safer use of chemicals, and ensure users understand the potential hazards associated with certain products.
Conclusion: staying on top of EUH labelling
As regulations evolve, keeping up with labelling requirements can be a complex and time-consuming task, especially when managing large portfolios of chemical products. However, compliance is crucial—not just to avoid regulatory penalties, but to protect human health and the environment.
By regularly reviewing your product labels, Safety Data Sheets, and staying up to date with the latest regulatory changes, you can ensure your products are safely and correctly labelled.
Whether you're dealing with common mixtures like adhesives or specialized substances such as lead-based products, EUH sentences are an important tool for clear and effective hazard communication.
If you need support in navigating EUH labelling or other chemical regulations, our team is here to help. Feel free to reach out with any questions or for guidance on how to stay compliant in an ever-changing regulatory landscape.