CLP Pictograms - key element of the CLP label

CLP pictograms are a fundamental element of the labelling of substances and mixtures in the European Union. In accordance with the CLP Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008, they must appear on every CLP label (of course, in the case of products for which CLP classification requires it) to clearly inform about the hazards associated with a given chemical product.

What are CLP pictograms?

CLP pictograms are black graphic symbols within red diamonds:

Example of a CLP Pictogram

which replaced the previously used symbols under the Dangerous Preparations Directive (black symbols on an orange square background):

Hazard symbols used before CLP pictograms (no longer in use)

CLP pictograms are globally harmonised under the GHS (Globally Harmonized System) and are designed to clearly warn users of physical, health or environmental hazards. They are a graphic, easily interpretable representation of the hazards posed by a product, and their presence on chemical mixture labels significantly contributes to user safety.

Current list of CLP pictograms:

Pictogram	Symbol	Hazard classes and categories
	GHS01	Unstable explosives Explosives of Divisions 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4 Self reactive substances and mixtures, Types A, B Organic peroxides, Types A, B
	GHS02	Flammable gases, hazard category 1 Flammable aerosols, hazard categories 1, 2 Flammable liquids, hazard categories 1, 2, 3 Flammable solids, hazard categories 1, 2 Self-reactive substances and mixtures, Types B, C, D, E, F Pyrophoric liquids, hazard category 1 Pyrophoric solids, hazard category 1 Self-heating substances and mixtures, hazard categories 1, 2 Substances and mixtures, which in contact with water, emit flammable gases, hazard categories 1, 2, 3 Organic peroxides, Types B, C, D, E, F
	GHS03	Oxidising gases, hazard category 1 Oxidising liquids, hazard categories 1, 2, 3 Oxidising solids, hazard categories 1, 2,
	GHS04	Gases under pressure: Compressed gases; Liquefied gases; Refrigerated liquefied gases; Dissolved gases
	GHS05	Corrosive to metals, hazard category 1 Skin corrosion, hazard categories 1A, 1B, 1C Serious eye damage, hazard category 1
	GHS06	Acute toxicity (oral, dermal, inhalation), hazard categories 1, 2, 3
	GHS07	Acute toxicity (oral, dermal, inhalation), hazard category 4 Skin irritation, hazard category 2 Eye irritation, hazard category 2 Skin sensitisation, hazard category 1 Specific Target Organ Toxicity — Single exposure, hazard category 3
	GHS08	Respiratory sensitisation, hazard category 1 Germ cell mutagenicity, hazard categories 1A, 1B, 2 Carcinogenicity, hazard categories 1A, 1B, 2 Reproductive toxicity, hazard categories 1A, 1B, 2 Specific Target Organ Toxicity — Single exposure, hazard categories 1, 2 Specific Target Organ Toxicity — Repeated exposure, hazard categories 1, 2 Aspiration hazard, hazard category 1
	GHS09	Hazardous to the aquatic environment Acute hazard category 1 Chronic hazard categories 1, 2

Obligation to use pictograms on CLP labels

In accordance with Article 17 of the CLP Regulation, every CLP label must include the appropriate pictograms assigned based on the classification of the substance or mixture, and in line with labelling rules. The pictograms must be clearly visible, contrasting, and have a minimum size of 1 cm × 1 cm (for the smallest packagings).

What does this mean in practice?

❌ Omitting a required pictogram on the label is a violation of the regulations and may result in penalties by enforcement authorities.
⚠️ Incorrect selection of pictograms can mislead users about the hazards posed by the product.
📌 When classifying, pictogram precedence rules should be applied – for example, the exclamation mark and skull should not be used together if they relate to the same hazard class.

Where are CLP pictograms used?

CLP pictograms must appear not only on packaging labels, but also:

in Safety Data Sheets (SDS) – in section 2,
in technical documentation,
and may be required in marketing materials for hazardous products.

Most common pictograms-related mistakes on CLP labels

🔴 Missing pictogram despite classification

🔴 Leaving empty diamonds on the label (when using label templates)

🔴 Pictogram too small or poorly printed

🔴 Using black-and-white versions – CLP pictograms must be in colour!

Summary

CLP pictograms are not just a legal requirement – they are a key part of effective hazard communication for chemicals. Correctly placing them on the label of a substance or mixture is fundamental to ensuring safe use and compliance in the EU market.

Need help with preparing or reviewing your CLP labels?

The SDS Create team will help you prepare or verify labels in accordance with CLP regulations.

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