Guide to UK regulations on labeling chemical products

In 2025, chemical labeling in the UK is governed by the GB CLP Regulation, a domestic framework that aligns with the UN’s Globally Harmonized System (GHS) while incorporating UK-specific compliance mechanisms. For businesses manufacturing, importing, or distributing chemical products, understanding what must appear on the label of a chemical product is not just a regulatory checkbox, it’s a gateway to market access, consumer trust, and legal protection.

This article outlines the essential rules, compliance strategies, and risk mitigation steps for UK chemical labeling in 2025, tailored for companies aiming to thrive in a tightly regulated environment.

What Is the GB CLP Regulation?

The Classification, Labeling and Packaging (CLP) Regulation is the UK’s legal framework for identifying and communicating chemical hazards. Post-Brexit, the UK retained the EU’s CLP Regulation but now enforces it independently through the GB CLP system, overseen by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

Key updates in 2025 include:

• New hazard classes: endocrine disruptors, persistent bio accumulative toxic substances (PBTs), and more
• Updated GB Mandatory Classification and Labeling (GB MCL) List: includes new classifications for 46 substances

Legal & financial risks of non-compliance

Failure to comply with chemical labeling regulations can result in:

• Fines and penalties: HSE enforcement actions may include substantial fines
• Product recalls: Non-compliant products may be withdrawn from the market
• Loss of market access: Retailers and distributors may refuse to stock improperly labeled products
• Reputational damage: Safety incidents linked to poor labeling can erode consumer trust

In 2025, the updated GB MCL List and new hazard categories puts pressure on companies to stay on top of changes.

6 steps to ensure compliance

1. Understand your product’s classification

Use the GB MCL List and consult the HSE’s classification guidance to determine the correct hazard class for your substance or mixture. Include all required label elements: hazard pictograms, signal words, supplier info, etc.

2. Design labels according to GB CLP

Ensure all required elements are present and formatted according to HSE specifications. Use professional labeling software or services to avoid errors. Ensure labels are legible, durable, and in English.

3. Maintain accurate safety data sheets (SDS)

Your SDS must align with the label and include all relevant hazard and precautionary statements. Maintain an up-to-date SDS for each product.

4. Train staff on labeling protocols

Employees involved in packaging, shipping, or regulatory affairs should receive regular training on CLP requirements.

5. Audit your supply chain

Verify that upstream suppliers provide accurate classification data and compliant labels. Downstream partners should be informed of any changes.

6. Stay updated with regulatory changes

Monitor regulatory updates from HSE. Join Product Intelligence’s Chemical Watch News & Insight platform for regular news alerts and analysis of what’s happening in the regulatory world but also what is proposed for the future. For specific topics like Packaging for example, refer to Focused Compliance Solution data-tools for focused regulatory assistance. Be careful to align with international standards if exporting.

Sector-specific labeling requirements

Some sectors have additional labeling rules. For example the Cosmetics sector must comply with UK Cosmetics Regulations.  The Biocides sector also needs special attention, requiring approval under the UK Biocidal Products Regulation. Agrochemicals too, are subject to DEFRA oversight and additional hazard communication standards. Always cross-reference sector-specific regulations with GB CLP to ensure full compliance. You can keep up to date with cosmetics and personal care regulations and biocides regulations with Enhesa Product Intelligence.

Documentation & technology

Investing in digital compliance tools can streamline your labeling process. For example you might benefit from label management software which has the functionality to automate updates and ensures consistency. You can access regulatory databases to provide real-time access to classification lists. Enhesa can help here, so please contact us if you need assistance with finding and pinpointing the relevant regulations for your business. Finally, it might make sense to integrate barcodes and QR codes to enhance traceability and access to SDSs. Proper documentation also supports audits and inspections, reducing the risk of enforcement actions.

Foster a compliance company culture

Compliance, not just for chemicals labeling, but for businesses in general, is complex and difficult. It’s also often not done right. Arguably, compliance isn’t just a technical task, it’s a company-wide responsibility. To be successful therefore, it makes sense to make a compliance culture an integral part of your business DNA. To do this, you could appoint a compliance officer who can conduct regular internal audits. You can reward proactive compliance behavior and checks and encourage cross-team and cross-departmental collaboration. It will help to make sure compliance is not a hidden task, but upfront and center in what you make, sell and how you do it. Make compliance part of your strategy.

In 2025, what must appear on the label of a chemical product is more than a regulatory requirement, it’s a strategic imperative. Businesses that master GB CLP compliance not only avoid costly penalties but also gain a competitive edge in a safety-conscious market.

Whether you’re a manufacturer, importer, or distributor, investing in robust labeling practices is your passport to trust, transparency, and long-term success.