Review: Recap: Seminar “New Developments in CLP and GHS”
March 9th – 10th 2026
This week, our colleagues Ana and Christoph attended the “New Developments in CLP and GHS” seminar hosted by ChemAcademy in Bonn. Ana has summarized her impressions and key takeaways — from professional highlights around CLP, GHS, and safety data sheets, to the moments that made the seminar a truly rewarding experience on a personal level as well.
“What I particularly enjoyed was the small group of participants on site. This quickly created an open and familiar atmosphere, and before long the group felt like a well-rehearsed team.
Technical Focus on Day One
The main topics covered were CLP, GHS, and transport. One memorable — and rather amusing — observation was that “Partially Globally Harmonised System” would sometimes be a more fitting name for GHS than “Globally Harmonised System.”
Topics included:
- Current status of UN GHS
- Hazard communication in the Safety Data Sheet (SDS)
- Transitional periods in dangerous goods regulations
- Various national regulations
- Which hazards are relevant for transport
- Scope of labelling and packaging regulations
After the first seminar day, we made the most of the last rays of sunshine with a walk around the Aachener Weiher, before rounding off the evening with a drink together. This enriched the seminar not only professionally, but also on a personal level.
Hands-On Deep Dive on Day Two
On the second day, we took a closer look at the structure of safety data sheets. This practical segment in particular brought many useful insights and addressed some typical questions that come up time and again in day-to-day work, for example:
- What must be included in Section 15, and what is optional?
- Does “MP” mean the same thing in the US as it does in Germany?
- Do changes to a safety data sheet need to be visibly marked?
- If a product is tested outside the EU, can the results be used here?
These and many other questions were discussed and answered in depth — and may just mean that these topics no longer keep anyone awake at night.
When the seminar finally came to an end, we were almost a little sad to say goodbye to our newly made acquaintances with a “see you next time.” All in all, it was an excellent blend of professional input, exchange, and a genuinely pleasant atmosphere.”
