The General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR) has mandated consumer product manufacturers to comply and introduced stricter Chemical compliance and safety measures for household chemical products, replacing the former General Product Safety Directive (GPSD). The new EU regulation, imposed on 13th December 2024, has enhanced consumer protection, ensured environmental safety, and ensured manufacturers' accountability for product safety. GPSR Compliance is essential for businesses operating in the EU. Let’s take an in-depth look at how to comply with GPSR for household chemicals and the Impact of GPSR on household chemical safety in the EU.

GPSR vs. GPSD differences for chemical products

The transition from GPSD to GPSR brings significant changes to chemical product regulations. To begin with, it ensures that the GPSR is directly applicable across all EU Member States. It imposes stricter oversight on hazardous substances, reinforcing REACH and CLP regulations compliance. GPSR requirement includes designating a Responsible Person, which ensures accountability for non-EU manufacturers, thus making compliance mandatory for all economic operators. E-commerce platforms now face stringent obligations to verify product safety before sales. Additionally, GPSR enhances recall mechanisms, mandating digital traceability and consumer notifications. Sustainability has become a key focus, encouraging non-toxic formulations and reusable product designs. This shift strengthens product safety, environmental responsibility, and regulatory compliance within the EU market.

Stronger Safety Standards

Household chemical products must meet stringent safety standards for GPSR requirements, under GPSR:

  • Products must be safe under normal and foreseeable use conditions.
  • Avoid environmental or health risks through Chemical compositions
  • Any suspected risk must lead to immediate action by the manufacturers, despite lack lacking full scientific proof, hence the Precautionary Principle should be applicable.

A proactive approach should be adopted by Manufacturers for ensuring consumer protection and avoiding GPSR penalties for chemical companies.

Comprehensive Risk Assessment & Documentation

Manufacturers are required to conduct thorough safety assessments, which include:

  • Evaluating chemical compositions and potential hazards.
  • Analysing exposure risks, particularly for vulnerable consumers such as for children and the elderly.
  • Preparing Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and toxicological assessments to document product safety and risks.

There must be well-maintained records which are readily available for regulatory audits.

Enhanced Traceability & Market Surveillance

Manufacturers must implement effective tracking systems, to ensure product safety and quick response to risks:

  • Each product must have a unique identification system for recall and corrective action purposes.
  • It is essential to maintain Supply chain transparency, and companies must cooperate with regulatory authorities.
  • Detailed records of production must be maintained by manufacturers, distribution, and compliance efforts.

Stricter Labeling & Consumer Warnings

GPSR enforces more detailed labeling requirements to improve consumer awareness and safety:

  • Labels must clearly indicate hazard warnings, precautions, and proper usage instructions.
  • Misleading claims such as “non-toxic” for hazardous products are prohibited.
  • Instructions must be clear, accessible, and available in multiple languages.

E-commerce & Online Sales Compliance

With the rise of e-commerce, GPSR extends EU chemical safety regulations for household products and other consumer products, to online marketplaces:

  • Adherence to safety standards is required by Online sellers and third-party distributors, like traditional retailers.
  • Manufacturers must ensure accurate labeling, product descriptions,  and safety information on e-commerce platforms.
  • Distribution on non-compliant products is monitored by the authorities to prevent online sales.

Mandatory Recall & Corrective Actions

In case of any safety concerns that arise, Companies must be prepared to take immediate action:

  • There should be a recall strategy in place to remove unsafe products efficiently.
  • GPSR mandates the use of a digital product safety database to track and manage recalls.
  • In case of any safety risks, the Authorities and consumers must be notified promptly.

Strict Penalties for Non-Compliance

Non-compliance with GPSR can lead to serious consequences, including:

  • Fines, product bans, and potential legal actions.
  • Regulatory authorities have increased powers to enforce restrictions on unsafe goods and conduct product testing
  • Non-compliance can lead to loss of market share and consumer trust.

Conclusion

GPSR has led to a significant shift in regulatory oversight, prioritizing consumer safety, market accountability and environmental responsibility. While compliance with the regulation will increase operational challenges, it will also provide an opportunity for manufacturers to strengthen consumer trust, enhance product credibility, and establish themselves as industry leaders.

Companies must adopt a proactive approach, to remain competitive and avoid penalties, by improving their labelling, safety assessments, traceability, and recall strategies.

Stay ahead with expert guidance tailored to your business needs. Freyr can assist in simplifying your path to compliance today!

Subscribe to Freyr Blog