CLP is expected to facilitate global trade and harmonization of communication of hazard information on chemical substances and to promote regulatory effectiveness. It complements the REACH regulation (EC No 1907/2006) and replaces the current legislation contained in the Dangerous Substances Directive (67/548/EEC) concerning the preparation of hazardous substances 1999/45/EC. The Regulation incorporates classification criteria and labelling rules agreed at UN level, named the GHS.

CLP introduces new classification criteria, hazard symbols (pictograms) and labelling phrases, while takes into account elements that are part of the current European Union legislation.

Additionally, the regulation requires companies to incorporate classification, labelling and packaging of substances and mixtures before placing them on the market. It aims to protect workers, consumers and the environment by labelling which reflects possible hazardous effects of a particular chemical. It also takes over provisions of REACH on the notification of classifications, the list of harmonized classifications and the creation of a classification and labelling.