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2 min read
If you manufacture, import, or sell chemical products in the European Union (EU) or European Economic Area (EEA), you may have come across the term UFI code. UFI Unique Formula Identifier has become a key requirement for chemical safety compliance across the EU. But what exactly is a UFI code, and why is it mandatory for many products? Let’s break it down in simple terms.
What Is a UFI Code?
A UFI code is a 16-character alphanumeric identifier used to uniquely identify the exact composition of a hazardous chemical mixture. It looks like a string of letters and numbers - for example, something like YV9K-3J9A-G209-C2T7.
What makes the UFI unique formula identifier special is that it links the product as sold on the market with detailed formulation information during EU PCN submission. This link enables quick and precise identification of the mixture in emergency situations, especially when someone is exposed to or poisoned by the chemical.
Where Did the Requirement Come From?
The UFI requirement was introduced through the CLP Regulation (EU) 1272/2008, as amended by Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/542. This amendment added a harmonised requirement for EU Poison Centre Notifications (PCN) and the UFI code to help emergency health response services better manage incidents involving hazardous mixtures.
Why Is a UFI Code Mandatory?
The UFI code is now mandatory for all hazardous mixtures -and here’s why:
1. Speedy and Accurate Emergency Response
When consumers or workers are exposed to a toxic product, time is critical. Without clear identification, poison centre operators may struggle to know exactly which mixture is involved, delaying life-saving advice. The UFI code helps them instantly match the product to detailed hazard and composition data.
2. Clear Regulatory Compliance
Under the CLP Regulation on chemical labeling requirements, products classified as health or physical hazards must display a UFI Code on their label. This rule applies to consumer, professional, and industrial products containing hazardous mixtures. The code must be clearly marked with the prefix “UFI:” followed by the 16-character identifier.
3. Harmonised Safety Information
The code creates a direct link between what’s on the product label and the detailed chemical formulation submitted through the EU Poison Centre Notification (PCN). This means emergency responders across the EU have consistent, important safety information at their fingertips, no matter where the product is sold.
When Did the UFI Become Mandatory?
The UFI requirement was rolled out in stages:
- From 1 January 2021, UFIs became mandatory for new consumer and professional use mixtures placed on the EU/EEA market.
- From 1 January 2024, the requirement expanded to include industrial use mixtures as well.
- By 1 January 2025, all hazardous mixtures already on the market had to also carry a UFI.
These deadlines mean that nearly all hazardous mixtures placed on the EU market today must have a UFI and the corresponding PCN submitted to competent authorities.
Who Needs to Provide the UFI?
The obligation to generate and label products with a UFI lies with manufacturers, importers, and downstream users who place hazardous mixtures on the EU/EEA market. These companies must submit detailed product information in the PCN format to the relevant Poison Centres.
Conclusion
A UFI code is more than just an identifier - it’s a critical regulatory tool that helps emergency services rapidly access product information and enhances chemical safety for users across Europe. Mandatory under EU law for hazardous mixtures, it ensures that products are clearly traceable and that appropriate medical advice can be quickly provided in emergencies. Freyr’s experts ensure chemical safety compliance including CLP compliance and provide UFI code and PCN submission services to ensure PCN compliance.
