Harmonised Classification and Labelling: new intentions and proposals for Tetrahydrofuran and Azobisisobutyronitrile
Germany has submitted new CLH intentions and proposals for tetrahydrofuran and azobisisobutyronitrile, two substances already listed in Annex VI to the CLP Regulation, which could lead to changes in their harmonised classification and labelling
22 Jul 2026At the end of June, on 24 and 30 June respectively, Germany submitted to ECHA an intention and a proposal for harmonised classification and labelling (CLH) for:
- Tetrahydrofuran (THF) (EC 203-726-8 / CAS 109-99-9 / INDEX 603-025-00-0), one of the most widely used industrial solvents, employed across a broad range of sectors, including the chemical, pharmaceutical, coatings, adhesives, and materials industries. The proposed revision of its harmonised classification introduces the new hazard classes Acute Tox. 4 H302 and STOT SE 3 H336, while also upgrading the classification for serious eye damage from Eye Irrit. 2 H319 to Eye Dam. 1 H318. Overall, the proposal brings the harmonised classification into line with the hazard profile already reported in the substance's REACH registration dossier.
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Current Harmonised Classification |
Proposed Revised Harmonised Classification |
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Flam. Liq. 2 H225 Eye Irrit. 2 H319 (SCL - C ≥ 25.0%) Carc. 2 H351 STOT SE 3 H335 (SCL - C ≥ 25.0%)
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Flam. Liq. 2 H225 Acute Tox. 4 H302 (ATE = 1650 mg/kg bw) Eye Dam. 1 H318 Carc. 2 H351 STOT SE 3 H335 (SCL - C ≥ 25.0%) STOT SE 3 H336 |
- 2,2'-dimethyl-2,2'-azodipropiononitrile (AIBN - Azobisisobutyronitrile) (EC 201-132-3 / CAS 78-67-1 / INDEX 608-019-00-1), used primarily in the polymer industry as a polymerisation initiator and blowing agent. Germany has proposed a revision of its harmonised classification to introduce the vPvM hazard class with the supplemental hazard statement EUH451, replacing the current classification for long-term aquatic hazard..
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Current Harmonised Classification |
Proposed Revised Harmonised Classification |
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Self-react. CD, H242 Acute Tox. 4*, H302 Acute Tox. 4*, H332 Aquatic Chronic 3, H412 |
Self-react. CD, H242 Acute Tox. 4*, H302 Acute Tox. 4*, H332 vPvM, EUH451 |
The proposals submitted by Germany reflect the ongoing update of harmonised classifications in line with the latest scientific evidence and the changes introduced by the revised CLP Regulation, particularly with regard to the new hazard classes. It should be noted that, under the generic concentration limits established by the CLP Regulation, a mixture must be classified as vPvM EUH451 ("Can cause very long-lasting and diffuse contamination of water resources") if it contains at least one component classified as vPvM at a concentration of ≥ 0.1% w/w.
Although both proposals are still at an early stage of the harmonisation process, companies concerned are advised to closely monitor their progress and to assess, at an early stage, the potential implications for the classification of mixtures, product labelling, Safety Data Sheets, and, more broadly, regulatory compliance throughout the supply chain.
We will continue to monitor the progress of these proposals and provide updates on the most significant developments, including the opinions adopted by the Committee for Risk Assessment (RAC) and any subsequent adoption through Adaptation to Technical Progress (ATP) to the CLP Regulation.