REACH: Implementation of the CLP Regulation: CEMBUREAU produces C&L and SDS Package

This package, produced by CEMBUREAU, contains a proposal, as approved by the CEMBUREAU board on 28 September, for the classification and labelling of Portland cement clinker and common cements under the new Regulation on classification, labelling and packaging of substances and mixtures (CLPⁱ, Regulation 1272/2008). This classification will now be used by all CEMBUREAU members as of 1 December 2010 for Portland cement clinker and 1 December 2012 for common cements. In this regard, the following hazard class categories apply:

• Skin irritation: 2
• Serious eye damage: 1
• Skin sensitisation: 1
• Specific target organ toxicity single exposure respiratory tract irritation: 3

In addition, the following two voluntary warning phrases for cement have been agreed:

• Skin contact with wet cement, fresh concrete or mortar may cause irritation, dermatitis or burns
• May cause damage to products made of aluminium or other non-noble metals

Notification of the classification of Portland cement clinker will be sent by CEMBUREAU (on behalf of its members) to the European Chemicals Agency (ECHAⁱ) before the deadline of 3 January 2011.

In addition, the CEMBUREAU Board has also approved the templates for the revised Safety Data Sheets (SDSⁱ) for both “Portland cement clinker” and “Common cements”.