Why can't we adjust the colors and sizes of pictograms to fit the overall graphic design?

I recently received a very interesting question:

»We've updated our company logo and consequently the label. Can the hazard symbols be in the color shown below, or do they have to be in specific colors?«

The question is valid because companies invest a lot of effort into their corporate design. So it's logical that you want to maintain it on product labels as well.

The problem is that warning signs are not part of the design. They are legally mandated safety elements. And there isn't much room for compromise here.

Colors are not a matter of taste and design.

In the EU, hazard pictograms for chemicals are clearly defined by the CLP regulation (Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008). This means:

·       the shape must be a diamond,

·       the border must be red,

·       the background must be white,

·       the symbol must be black.

Color adjustments for design, logos, or packaging are not allowed, no matter how aesthetically pleasing they might be.

The reason is that symbols must be immediately recognizable to all users, regardless of country, language, or company.

What about the size of the pictograms?

The same applies to the size of the pictograms. CLP specifies:

·       a minimum size based on the packaging volume,

·       the requirement that pictograms are clearly visible, readable, and not covered by other text or graphics.

Reducing pictograms to add more marketing text, enlarge the logo, or "clean up the design" is not an acceptable practice. 

Why are these rules strict?

Warning signs are not there for bureaucracy, but for:

·       user safety,

·       quick hazard recognition,

·       preventing misuse of the product,

·       legal protection of the company.

In the event of an inspection or accident, incorrect pictograms are one of the first things authorities check. They are standardized safety warnings intended for all users, regardless of language, country, or industry.

What does this mean for companies in practice?

Very simply:

·       the corporate design adapts to legislation, not the other way around,

·       a label is not a marketing flyer,

·       warning signs take precedence over design.

In practice, incorrect pictograms are one of the most common reasons for:

·       findings of non-compliance,

·       requests for label corrections,

·       or even product recalls.

It is true that a company's corporate design is important. However, safety and compliance with legislation take precedence over "beauty" with purpose.

If you also have questions about chemical legislation, feel free to write to me at simona.miklavcic@bens-consulting.eu.