What is a Poison Centre Notification (PCN)?
Poison Centre Notification (PCN): What Brands Need to Know
If you manufacture or sell products in the EU that contain hazardous mixtures—whether detergents, home fragrances, or even cosmetic-adjacent items—you may be required to submit a Poison Centre Notification (PCN). This obligation ensures that national poison centres have the information they need to assist consumers and healthcare professionals in case of accidental exposure.
What Is a Poison Centre Notification (PCN)?
A PCN is a standardized submission of product composition, hazard classification, and toxicological information to a central EU database managed by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA). This information is made available to poison centres across EU member states for emergency response purposes.
The requirement stems from Annex VIII of the CLP Regulation (Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008), which focuses on hazardous chemical mixtures. It applies to a wide range of consumer, professional, and industrial products placed on the EU market.
When Is a PCN Required?
You may need to submit a PCN if your product:
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Contains hazardous mixtures (classified under CLP)
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Is intended for consumer or professional use in the EU
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Is not exempt under specific categories (e.g., cosmetics, pharmaceuticals)
It’s important to note that while most cosmetic products are exempt from PCN (as they are regulated under the Cosmetics Regulation), products like detergents, air fresheners, or other chemical mixtures often fall within scope.
What Information Is Needed for a PCN?
To complete a compliant submission, companies must provide:
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Product identification details
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Full mixture composition (including exact percentages)
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Toxicological and hazard classification
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Relevant packaging and label elements
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Unique Formula Identifier (UFI)
How Biorius Can Help
Biorius offers a complete PCN support service to simplify this complex regulatory task:
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We assess whether your product requires a PCN
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We prepare and submit the PCN dossier through the ECHA portal
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We generate your UFI and help ensure correct labeling
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We monitor updates and changes to maintain compliance
Whether you’re launching a single product or managing a full portfolio, Biorius ensures your documentation is accurate, compliant, and ready for inspection.
Learn more about our General Product Safety Regulation services and discover how we can simplify your regulatory journey.
Conclusion
Poison Centre Notification is a critical part of placing chemical mixtures on the EU market. Non-compliance can result in product withdrawal, legal penalties, and reputational risk. Let our experts guide you through every step—saving you time, ensuring peace of mind, and protecting your customers.
Reach out to us at info@biorius.com or use the contact form below to get in touch with our regulatory experts.
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First Class specialists in cosmetic regulations in Europe, the United Kingdom, the United States, and in more than 60 countries -
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