All products (not just paints) must be labelled according to a European scheme if they are hazardous. The scheme is changing to align with the new EU Regulation on Classification, Labelling and Packaging , known as CLP. CLP is based on a UN model - the Globally Harmonised System (GHS) and is becoming the worldwide standard. You may already see some materials carrying the new symbols (officially now known as pictograms) as the new scheme is phased in (the new labelling must be in place by June 2015 for mixtures such as paints and inks).
The labelling information may be given as:
Old Scheme (CHIP)
New Scheme (CLP)
Symbol
Black symbol on an orange/yellow background square
Black pictogram on white background in red-bordered diamond
Warning
Highly Flammable
Warning
Safety Information
Risk and Safety Phrases
Hazard and Precautionary Phrases
e.g.
Harmful if swallowed,
Keep out of reach of children.
Flammable liquid and vapour,
Keep away from heat - No smoking
For more information on CLP, please visit the HSE website
Environmental information may also be given. Examples are:
VOC content – this is a statement from the supplier informing you of the Volatile Organic Compound content of each decorative coating product
Some decorative products carry a 'globe' symbol indicating the VOC content, such as:
(see "What are VOCs?" ) A symbol indicating that the material is an environmental pollutant e.g.
Advice on disposal
Other non-statutory safety precautions may be added by the manufacturer.
Example of a typical label showing health and safety and environmental information.
Precautions Flammable
Keep out of reach of children
Use only in well ventilated areas
Ensure maximum ventilation during application and drying
Restrict interior use to small surface areas such as doors, skirting boards and window frames. Not recommended for interior use on large surface areas such as walls, floors or ceilings, or in confined spaces
Keep away from sources of ignition – no smoking
Avoid contact with skin and eyes
In case of contact with eyes, rise immediately with plenty of water and seek medical advice
After contact with skin, wash immediately with plenty of soap and water or a proprietary skin cleanser. Do not use solvent, thinners or white spirit
Remove as much product as possible from brushes/rollers before washing
Some local authorities have special facilities for disposal of waste paint
Do not empty paint into drains or watercourses
Special precautions should be taken during surface preparation of pre-1960s paint surfaces over wood or metal as they may contain harmful lead.
High VOC Content 25-50% VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) contribute to atmospheric pollution
