,"The UK Health and Safety Executive (HSE), acting as the GB CLP Agency, has issued its opinion on the proposed mandatory classification and labelling (MCL) of Melaleuca alternifolia (tea tree oil, TTO). Based on a scientific and technical assessment, HSE recommends classifications including flammable liquid, acute toxicity (oral and inhalation), skin irritation, skin sensitisation, aspiration toxicity, and aquatic hazards, but does not support classification for reproductive or developmental toxicity at this stage. This position partly aligns with the RAC opinion under the EU CLP, with disagreements notably on reproductive toxicity and specific target organ toxicity.
The proposed GB MCL would apply under the UK REACH, GB PPP, and GB BP regimes, though TTO is not currently approved for plant protection or biocidal use in Great Britain. Potential regulatory impacts include obligations under COSHH for workplace risk assessments, possible consideration as a substance of very high concern (SVHC), and indirect implications for its use in cosmetics and cleaning products. No major policy or socio-economic impacts are expected, aside from costs related to relabelling and compliance."
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