Why your chemical labels might be illegal after 2027 (and what to do now)

You might think font sizes on chemical labels are a minor detail.  

But when a new EU regulation dedicates more than 20 pages just to label formatting, it's clear that something big has changed. 

Since December 2024, the updated CLP Regulation (EU) 2024/2865 has introduced stricter rules for how labels on hazardous chemicals must look. If your company places chemical products on the EU market, these changes will directly affect you. This is especially important if you work with small packaging or use digital tools like Chemius to generate your labels. 

Here’s what’s changed and why now is the time to act. 

What’s Changed and Why It Matters 

The revised rules aim to improve how hazard information is communicated, especially on smaller containers where space is limited. The most important updates include: 

• New minimum font sizes, based on the volume of the packaging 

• Clear visual separation of hazard elements to enhance readability 

• Minimum pictogram sizes adjusted for container volume 

• Whitespace requirements, preventing overcrowded label designs 

• A push for fold-out and multi-layer labels on small containers 

These are no longer best practices. They are now mandatory. 

Minimum Font Sizes Now Tied to Container Volume 

The regulation introduces specific font size requirements based on the volume of the packaging. Here’s what the table looks like: 

If your labels don't meet these requirements, they will need to be revised. This change affects not just new products but also existing labels already in use.  

It’s Not Just Font Size: Legibility Is the Focus 

Besides font size, the new regulation emphasizes the overall legibility of the label. That means: 

• High contrast between text and background is required 

• Sans-serif fonts like Arial or Helvetica should be used 

• Labels must have clear spacing between elements 

• Hazard and precautionary statements must be separated and easy to find 

• No overlapping elements or cluttered layouts 

These changes aim to make labels easier to read in real-world settings, such as warehouses, factories, and outdoor environments.  

Fold-Out Labels Are No Longer Just Nice to Have 

For smaller packaging, the regulation now encourages the use of: 

• Fold-out labels 

• Booklet-style multi-layer labels 

• Tag-based formats or outer packaging, when needed 

What’s important is that all required safety and hazard information must be accessible, no matter the packaging size.  

Compliance Timeline: When You Must Act 

This is not a distant deadline. There is a clear transition period, and preparation should begin now. 

This means that after 2027, your labels must be updated across all products, including those already sitting on warehouse shelves products that you will place on the market after 1.1.2027. 

What You Should Do Next 

To stay ahead of the curve and avoid potential non-compliance, here are four practical steps you can take now: 

1. Review your current labels against the new size and spacing requirements. 

1. Check your labeling software to ensure it can accommodate the new formatting standards. 

1. Plan for updates, especially for products with longer shelf lives or slower turnover. 

1. Train your team, particularly those involved in product labeling, packaging, and compliance.  

Final Thought 

These changes are more than a regulatory formality. They’re designed to make labels safer, clearer, and more accessible to the people who use them. 

By acting now, you avoid last-minute chaos, reduce compliance risks, and show your clients and partners that you're committed to clarity and safety. 

If you need help reviewing your labels, updating your templates, or simply figuring out what applies to you, we’re here to help. 

Let’s make sure your labels are future-ready.