Globally Harmonised System. Regulation (EC) No. 1272/2008, also referred to as GHS or CLP (Classification, Labelling and Packaging) regulation, stands for the global harmonisation of the classification and labelling of chemicals. This means the rules for hazardous substances and goods are transferred to one single new system. The CLP regulation replaces the previous EU Directive on dangerous substances (67/548/EEC) and the EU Dangerous Preparation Directive (1999/45/EC). The new classification and labelling includes new hazard pictograms, hazard statements (H phrases) and precautionary statements (P phrases).
The new GHS regulations entered into force on 20 January 2009. For mixtures, the transitional period continues until 1 June 2015.