CLP (GHS) chemical labels

GHS-standard chemical labeling is mandatory for chemical products. The rules for creating CLP/GHS labels are strictly defined by European Union regulations to protect users and the natural environment. CLP/GHS chemical labels can be printed by professional print shops or produced in-house using color label printers. What else is worth knowing?

What exactly are CLP / GHS standards?

CLP (Classification, Labelling and Packaging) is a European Union regulation. It implements GHS—the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals developed by the United Nations. CLP/GHS chemical labels placed on chemical products must include specific information in line with this system, such as:

• product name,
• manufacturer or importer details,
• weight or volume,
• pictograms hazards (hazard pictograms),
• signal words,
• precautionary statements (P-statements),
• hazard statements (H-statements).

Printing CLP/GHS chemical labels: key guidelines

Chemical labels must not only include required information, but also meet visual requirements. Above all, a CLP/GHS label must be legible and durable. This means the text and the hazard pictogram graphics must remain readable throughout the entire period the chemical is used from that package.

For this reason, printing should be resistant to chemicals and moisture, should not fade under sunlight, and must not rub off. Choosing the right font size and pictogram size is also essential to ensure information is clear and easy to read.

To meet these strict requirements for CLP/GHS labeling, it is necessary to use a professional printing device that provides sharp, durable output on labels.

Which printers are used to print CLP/GHS chemical labels?

First, selecting the printing method matters. Thermal transfer printing is considered one of the most durable options. That’s why CLP/GHS labels are recommended to be printed on thermal transfer printers. Thermal transfer printing with resin ribbons delivers long-lasting prints that resist chemical agents, abrasion, and weather conditions—helping meet legal requirements.

Color inkjet label printers are also recommended for printing chemical labels. An example of printers suitable for color CLP/GHS labels is the EPSON ColorWorks series—especially models C4000, C6000, C6500, and C8000. These printers offer high print quality, support multiple media types, and provide strong performance. They use DURABrite® pigment inks, which helps meet BS5609, a standard that confirms label durability and resistance to water and abrasion.

How to print CLP/GHS chemical labels

To print a chemical label, you need not only the right printer, but also a proper label design, the correct size, and the right material. Specialist software can be used to create the design—one example is ETILABEL. ETILABEL Integration is the most advanced version, allowing you to create CLP/GHS labels from scratch and use ready-made templates.

You should also choose the right label material (e.g., PE, PP, PET, PVC, PC) and a high-quality resin ribbon. For chemical labels, Diamond Resin class thermal transfer ribbons are recommended, as they help ensure the printed information remains durable for many years.

Finally, it’s good practice to run a test print to confirm that all information is legible and clearly printed, and that each GHS hazard symbol maintains the correct color required by the relevant standards.