Authorisation holders: be aware of the altered classification of formaldehyde
Ctgb has noted that a number of authorisation holders have not complied with the obligations resulting from the altered CLP classification of formaldehyde. Due to the reclassification of formaldehyde as a class 1B carcinogen, authorisation holders are obligated to change the labels of any products containing formaldehyde. So far, the Ctgb has received such a request for only one authorised product. The reclassification does not have any direct consequences for the authorisation itself, but will play a role in the renewal of the authorisation. The Human Environment and Transport Inspectorate has been informed.
Roles and obligations in case of a change in substance classification
CLP Regulation 1272/2008 concerns the Classification, Labelling and Packaging of substances and mixtures. Changes to the list are periodically necessary due to technical and scientific progress. Since Regulation 1272/2008 went into force in 2009, the appendices (the ATPs) have undergone various changes. This concerns changes in the classification, labelling and packaging requirements, as well as changes in the harmonised classification of substances in Appendix VI. Authorisation holders are obligated to keep track of such changes that may affect their authorised products, and if necessary request an amendment of the corresponding label from the Ctgb.
In June 2014, the 6th ATP was published by the EC, including the new classification of formaldehyde. Based on the provisions in this ATP, authorisation holders had until 1 January 2016 to check their own products and if necessary request an amendment of the label from the Ctgb.
Due to the more severe classification of formaldehyde as a class 1B carcinogen, the CTG reminds authorisation holders of their responsibility in this matter. The authorisations that are affected can be found in the pesticides database. So far, the Ctgb has received such a request for only one authorised product. The Human Environment and Transport Inspectorate has been informed.