Dangerous preparations: classification, packaging and labelling

This proposal brings the current directive on classification, packaging and labelling of dangerous preparations up to date, while improving the presentation and introducing some new elements. Most of the proposed changes are timely and necessary, and the Committee approves the proposal subject to the comments below. Introduction of plant-protection products (PPPs): the Committee proposes that an annex under this directive give clear, unambiguous rules for labelling these products and to amend Directive 91/414/EEC as necessary, all of which needs to be achieved at the latest when the proposal comes into force. a) Extension of safety data sheets (SDS): full data sheets are justified in those cases where one substance has exposure limits at the workplace. In the case where one component substance poses health hazards (within the context of Article 16), there should be simplified information sheets giving only those details which are really needed for users or consumers. b) Environmental dangers: the annexes should deal only with the technical parts of the assessments, this would allow more rapid adaptations of the technical part in line with progress. c) Alternative names: the use of alternative names should be permitted when justified, and when it entails no additional risk for users and consumers and does not lower the level of information. The procedure of approval of these names is complicated and lengthy. d) Evaluation of health hazards: it needs to be made clear that the increase in the permitted variations only applies in the rare cases where properties of the preparation are first assessed by testing rather than by calculation from the constituents. e) Risk and safety advice phrases: the information given on the label must be really necessary and intelligible. f) Dates of application: application should start from the date of actual publication in the OJ with a five-year transition period. g) Additional labelling of certain sensitizers: putting the name of certain sensitizing substances on the label to alert sensitized persons is a sensible requirement.�