News Details

On 30 April 2026, the UK government introduced a set of reforms to key chemicals legislation in Great Britain by adopting the Chemicals (Health and Safety) (Amendment, Consequential and Transitional Provision) Regulations 2026 (SI 2026/484). Adopted under the Retained EU Law (Revocation and Reform) Act 2023, the regulations amend the GB CLP Regulation, GB BPR Regulation, and GB PIC Regulation.

The changes are intended to streamline regulatory procedures, reduce administrative requirements, and further adapt retained EU law to a standalone UK system. The regulations will enter into force on 21 May 2026.

Streamlined Classification and Labelling under GB CLP

A central element of the reforms is the revision of mandatory classification and labelling procedures under GB CLP. The new regulation replaces the existing dual system under Articles 37 and 37A with a single, consolidated procedure.

The new framework introduces a “fast-track” route for proposals originating from jurisdictions considered to have comparable implementation of the Globally Harmonised System (GHS), including the EU. For other proposals, a structured process with defined timelines for evaluation, opinion development, and decision-making is established.

In addition, the regulation removes provisions relating to the GB CLP notification database and associated supplier notification requirements.

Adjustments to Biocidal Products Regulation

Amendments to the GB BPR introduce greater flexibility in the approval and use of biocidal products. For active substances with pending renewal applications, approval periods are automatically extended until 31 July 2031 if they would otherwise expire before a decision is made.

The rules on derogations are also revised to allow for the temporary use of non-authorised biocidal products for up to 550 days or, where justified, until an authorisation decision is reached. These changes aim to ensure the continued availability of products necessary for addressing risks to public or environmental health.

Simplification of Export Rules under GB PIC

The regulation also updates the GB PIC framework governing the export and import of hazardous chemicals. The amendments remove certain additional conditions previously applicable to specific chemicals as well as the requirements for exporters to obtain and include special reference identification numbers in some cases. The changes also update legal references to align with current rules on persistent organic pollutants.

Transitional Measures

Transitional provisions ensure that proposals for classification and labelling submitted or under evaluation before the regulation comes into force of will continue to be processed under the previous procedures.