Unique Formula Identifier (UFI) Codes
Introduction
The Unique Formula Identifier (UFI) is a 16-character alphanumeric code that uniquely identifies a specific mixture composition.
It was introduced as part of the harmonized information requirements for emergency health response under Annex VIII to the CLP Regulation.
What are Unique Formula Identifiers (UFIs)?
UFIs are codes that are used on the labels of products that contain a hazardous mixture.
It is linked to poison centre information to allow rapid identification of the formula and hazards associated with the product.
Provide the UFI in Section 1.1 of the SDS where available.
Purpose of UFI
- To provide a quick and unambiguous identification of the product in case of a poisoning incident
- To allow poison centers to identify the exact composition of a mixture
- To improve emergency health response and medical treatment
UFI Generation
The UFI is generated using:
- The company's VAT number (or a "company key" for non-EU companies)
- A formulation number assigned by the company to the specific mixture
Companies can generate UFIs using the ECHA's UFI Generator tool or by implementing the UFI algorithm in their own systems.
UFI Format
The UFI code follows this format: XXXX-YYYY-ZZZZ-CCCC
Where:
- X, Y, and Z are letters or numbers
- C is a check character
Example UFI: 3000-A0PG-V00M-QRHJ
UFI on Labels and Safety Data Sheets
- The UFI must be printed on or affixed to the label of hazardous mixtures
- For mixtures not packaged, the UFI must be mentioned in the Safety Data Sheet (SDS)
- The UFI should be preceded by the acronym "UFI:" in capital letters
Implementation Timeline
- Consumer use: 1 January 2021
- Professional use: 1 January 2021
- Industrial use: 1 January 2024
Exemptions
Some mixtures are exempted from the UFI requirement, including:
- Gases under pressure
- Explosives
- Mixtures for research and development (R&D)
UFI and Mixture Changes
- Minor changes in mixture composition do not require a new UFI
- Significant changes in composition require a new UFI and a new notification
Benefits of UFI
- Faster and more accurate identification of mixtures in emergencies
- Improved efficiency of poison centers
- Better protection of confidential business information
UFI Codes in the EU and UK Post-Brexit
The implementation of Unique Formula Identifier (UFI) codes has diverged between the EU and UK following Brexit:
European Union
- UFI codes remain mandatory for hazardous mixtures placed on the EU market, as per Annex VIII of the CLP Regulation
- The UFI must be included on the product label and in Section 1.1 of the Safety Data Sheet for certain hazardous mixtures
- Companies must submit product information, including the UFI, to appointed bodies in EU member states
United Kingdom
- The UK no longer follows Annex VIII of the CLP Regulation
- UFI codes are not mandatory for products placed only on the Great Britain market
- Companies must notify hazardous mixtures to the National Poisons Information Service (NPIS) but without using the UFI system
- UFI codes may still appear on products in Great Britain if they are also sold in the EU market
Considerations for Companies
- Products exported to both the EU and UK markets must comply with both sets of regulations
- Safety Data Sheets may need to be adapted depending on the intended market
- Companies should ensure their notification processes align with the requirements of each region
This divergence highlights the need for companies to stay informed about regulatory changes and adapt their compliance strategies accordingly when dealing with both EU and UK markets.
UFI in Practice: Examples
Example 1: Consumer Product Label
A household cleaner label might include:
"UFI: VDU1-414F-1003-1862"
Example 2: Industrial Product SDS
Section 1.1 of an SDS for an industrial adhesive might include:
"Product identifier: Super Strong Adhesive
UFI: C300-R0CJ-D00X-5DJK"
Example 3: Multiple UFIs
A paint company produces the same color in different sheens. The label might show:
"Midnight Blue Matte: UFI: E200-D0EF-F00Y-HRNC
Midnight Blue Satin: UFI: J400-M0KL-P00Z-TQWX
Midnight Blue Gloss: UFI: N600-R0PQ-S00A-VBGH"
Key Takeaways
- The Unique Formula Identifier (UFI) is a 16-character code that uniquely identifies hazardous mixtures.
- UFIs are used for rapid identification in poisoning incidents and to improve emergency health response.
- Companies must generate UFIs for hazardous mixtures and include them on product labels and Safety Data Sheets.
- UFIs are mandatory for hazardous mixtures in the EU but not in the UK post-Brexit.
- Companies exporting to both regions must comply with the respective UFI requirements.
Note: The UFI code is a critical component in ensuring rapid and accurate response to poisoning incidents. Always ensure that the UFI is correctly generated, displayed, and kept up to date with any significant changes in mixture composition.