P-Statements on the CLP Label – What Do They Mean and How to Use Them?
What are P-statements?
P-statements (Precautionary statements) are a mandatory element of chemical labelling in accordance with the CLP Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008. They inform the user about the recommended precautionary measures to be taken when using, storing, or disposing of a hazardous substance or mixture.
P-statements are divided into five groups:
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P1XX – General statements
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P2XX – Prevention statements
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P3XX – Response statements
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P4XX – Storage statements
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P5XX – Disposal statements
Examples of P-statements:
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P102 – Keep out of reach of children.
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P210 – Keep away from heat, hot surfaces, sparks, open flames.
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P305+P351+P338 – Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.
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P405 – Store locked up.
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P502 – Refer to manufacturer or supplier for information on recovery or recycling.
Obligation to place P-statements on the label
According to CLP, the supplier must include appropriate P-statements on the label of any substance or mixture classified as hazardous. The choice of statements should result from the hazard classification and the foreseeable type and manner of use of the product. It should also consider the intended user group (e.g. consumers vs. professionals – different statements may apply).
There is no obligation to use all possible statements – only those that are most relevant and useful for the user should be selected. It is also important to remember that the number of P-statements on the label should be limited to six, unless the nature and severity of the hazards require more.
Where should P-statements be placed on the label?
P-statements should appear in a visible place on the label, alongside other CLP labelling elements. All P-statements listed in Section 2.2 of the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) should be included on the label of the chemical product.
How to apply P-statements in practice?
✅ The selection of P-statements should be purposeful – choose only those that are directly related to the specific hazard and use of the product. Do not extend the list to include all available statements – this may make it difficult to fit them on the label.
✅ The label must be clear and readable – too many P-statements can make it hard for users to identify key safety information.
✅ P-statements must be consistent with the content of the Safety Data Sheet (Subsection 2.2 of the SDS).
✅ Translation matters – all statements must be translated into the language of the country where the product is placed on the market.
✅ Use the most up-to-date versions of P-statements, as listed in the CLP Regulation.
Summary
P-statements are practical recommendations for chemical users – they explain how to safely use, store, and dispose of hazardous chemical products. Their appropriate selection and placement on the label is one of the fundamental steps in preparing a CLP-compliant label.
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