Dangerous Substances Directive (67/548/EEC)
Objective
The main objective of this directive is to communicate intrinsic hazardous properties of substances through classification and labelling. In order to make it easy to recognize the meaning of the classification, the classification system uses risk phrases and icons. For example, a substance that is classified as "highly flammable" will carry an icon that shows a flame. It is important to understand that this classification system communicates the intrinsic hazards of the substances and not the risk associated with their use. Risk depends on many other factors, especially concentration in the finished product.
The Dangerous Substances Directive's (DSD) prime aim is to identify and control individual dangerous chemicals and raw materials.
The Dangerous Substances Directive's (DSD) prime aim is to identify and control individual dangerous chemicals and raw materials.
Background
The DSD may recommend certain packaging precautions, depending on the hazard properties of a substance.
"New chemicals" in Europe are those that were never marketed in the EU before. Such chemicals must undergo a thorough safety characterization or "notification," accompanied by a risk assessment, before they may be marketed. The classification and labelling status of the new chemical hinges on the outcome of testing done for the notification dossier. For some chemicals there may be marketing restrictions.
The DSD communicates safety through classification and labelling of individual dangerous chemicals. In addition it can prescribe certain packaging measures. Substances not classified as dangerous will not be subject to any labelling or packaging measures. For most chemicals (the so-called EINECS chemicals, or those listed on the European Inventory of New and Existing Chemical Substances) these measures are solely based on the inherent hazard properties of the chemical and do not take "exposures" or risk assessments into account.
For a specific group of chemicals (the new chemicals which are not listed on EINECS), the DSD requires the submission of a "notification dossier" prior to marketing. This dossier contains information on prospective tonnages of the chemical, as well as its (eco) toxicity and physical-chemical properties. Based on this dossier, the authorities make decisions about classification, labelling and packaging measures. In addition, a risk assessment is conducted which, in some cases, can lead to marketing restrictions.
"New chemicals" in Europe are those that were never marketed in the EU before. Such chemicals must undergo a thorough safety characterization or "notification," accompanied by a risk assessment, before they may be marketed. The classification and labelling status of the new chemical hinges on the outcome of testing done for the notification dossier. For some chemicals there may be marketing restrictions.
The DSD communicates safety through classification and labelling of individual dangerous chemicals. In addition it can prescribe certain packaging measures. Substances not classified as dangerous will not be subject to any labelling or packaging measures. For most chemicals (the so-called EINECS chemicals, or those listed on the European Inventory of New and Existing Chemical Substances) these measures are solely based on the inherent hazard properties of the chemical and do not take "exposures" or risk assessments into account.
For a specific group of chemicals (the new chemicals which are not listed on EINECS), the DSD requires the submission of a "notification dossier" prior to marketing. This dossier contains information on prospective tonnages of the chemical, as well as its (eco) toxicity and physical-chemical properties. Based on this dossier, the authorities make decisions about classification, labelling and packaging measures. In addition, a risk assessment is conducted which, in some cases, can lead to marketing restrictions.
Implementation
The manufacturer/supplier is responsible for the correct classification, labelling and packaging of individual chemicals and the notification of new chemicals, including the risk assessment (optional).
The Authorities monitor all chemicals in the trade for the correct implementation of classification, labelling and packaging of individual chemicals. In addition, they review the notification dossiers for new chemicals and, if necessary, conduct a risk assessment.
The Authorities monitor all chemicals in the trade for the correct implementation of classification, labelling and packaging of individual chemicals. In addition, they review the notification dossiers for new chemicals and, if necessary, conduct a risk assessment.