H-Statements on the CLP Label – What Do They Mean and How to Use Them Correctly?
What are H-Statements?
H-statements (Hazard statements) are mandatory elements of chemical labelling in the European Union under the CLP Regulation (1272/2008/EC). They inform the user about the type of hazard posed by a given substance or mixture and are divided into three categories:
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H2XX statements – indicating physicochemical hazards (e.g. flammable liquids)
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H3XX statements – indicating hazards to human health (e.g. corrosive effects)
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H4XX statements – indicating environmental hazards (e.g. acute aquatic toxicity)
Examples of H-statements:
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H225 – Highly flammable liquid and vapour.
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H315 – Causes skin irritation.
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H410 – Very toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects.
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Obligation to Include H-Statements on the Label
Every supplier of a substance or mixture classified as hazardous is required to include the appropriate H-statements on the CLP label. These statements must match the hazard classification and be described in section 2.2 of the Safety Data Sheet (SDS).
Where should H-statements be placed on the label?
H-statements should be placed in a clearly visible part of the label, alongside other CLP labelling elements. In the case of multiple hazards, all applicable H-statements resulting from the classification must be used (with minor exceptions, such as for combining H400 and H410).
How to use H-statements in practice?
✅ H-statements must be up to date and reflect the classification of the chemical product – if the classification changes, the H-statements must also change, and the label must be updated accordingly.
✅ If H-statements are present in the SDS, they must be repeated on the label, in accordance with the classification.
✅ Like other label elements, H-statements must be translated into the appropriate languages.
✅ The absence or incorrect use of H-statements may be considered a serious breach of the CLP Regulation and national chemical laws.
Summary
H-statements are not just a mandatory element of the CLP label – they are a key piece of hazard information designed to protect human health and the environment. Their correct assignment and placement on the label is one of the fundamental responsibilities of suppliers of chemical substances and mixtures.
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