Candles

Candles were not considered to be classifiable under CHIP, but this situation has changed under CLP, where they are considered as being mixtures (even though they are not liquids).

Candles containing hazardous components such as dyes or fragrances are considered to be potentially hazardous to health, and require classification like any other hazardous product.  The types of hazard which a candle has will depend on the hazardous properties of the components, so an individual classification must be made on a case-by-case basis for each candle formulation.

Note that candles are not considered to be flammable under CLP, which means that there is no fire safety information provided under CLP.  (It is possible that they might be regarded as being combustible under GHS, and if you are classifying candles under GHS it is recommended you seek advice on this point).

Voluntary candle labelling

Candle labelling is also covered by BS EU 15494:2007, Candles. Product safety labels, which can be purchased from https://shop.bsigroup.com/ProductDetail?pid=000000000030145994 .

The requirements of this standard are that there is a warning pictogram of an yellow triangle with black border containing a black exclamation mark:

Example warning symbol for candles, EN 15494 (click on image to enlarge it).

To comply with the standard, there are also four safety messages which have to be included on all labels:

• never leave a burning candle unattended
• burn candle out of reach of children and pets
• always leave at least xx cm between burning candles. (xx represents the minimum safety distance as recommended by the manufacturer/not applicable to floating candles)
• do not burn candles on or near anything that can catch fire.

Although not mandatory, many candle manufacturers include this information as well as CLP labelling, so that fire safety (which is not included in CLP) is covered.