Starting today, 1 June, a new labelling and packaging system will apply for most chemical products on the European market, such as cleaning products, pesticides, etc.
With this new system, the old icons (black symbols in an orange square) will give way to new black symbols on white backgrounds within a red frame (see image above).
The new symbols, such as the exclamation point, and white cross indicate danger to human health, while the gas bottle, demonstrates the danger of pressure gas. The “X” symbol will no longer be used.
Companies using, producing and putting chemical product onto the market, as well as consumers should take note and familiarise themselves with the new facets of the labelling, in order to utilise such products correctly and safely.
As well as the icons and pictograms, warnings (in word form) will be displayed to provide additional information on the severity of potential danger for each product. This will allow consumers to better understand the risks of a chemical and avoid dangerous products, such as overly-aggressive and damaging cleaning products.
The Environment Administration (AEV) and the Ministry of Sustainable Development and Infrastructure (MDDI) are the authorities responsible in overseeing this domain. In addition to carrying out the inspection on the implementation of the new regulation by businesses, the AEV will provide information for consumers, through a brochure detailing all the new hazard pictograms. It is available in big supermarkets and DIY stores in Luxembourg. Consumers can also find the relevant information at www.emwelt.lu.
Photo by Ministry of Sustainable Development and Infrastructure
