UFI codes and their significance in the handling of compressed gas containers (LPG/fuel gas), as well as filling stations/filling stations in Europe and Germany from 01 January 2021 n.d. VO 2020/878 (EU) in conjunction with VO 1907/2006 (EC).
The German Association for Gas Technology e.V. would like to inform all owners of pressurised gas containers containing propane/butane/fuel gas mixtures about a new labelling obligation which will come into force on 1 January 2021 as a result of the entry into force of Commission Regulation (EU) 2020/878 based on Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 concerning the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH). We would like to give you an “example” of this new labelling obligation and explain it in a generally understandable way.
Let us assume that individual GAGT e.V. members operate a “filling station” for pressurised gas containers containing propane/butane/fuel gas mixtures. As our members have their locations all over Europe, they have to register on a registration dossier issued by the “European Chemicals Agency” (ECHA), in Helsinki, stating a 16-digit registration code, the so-called UFI code (UFI: GHXI-00CF-GXYZ-53LB), under the company name and other parameters. It should be noted that all declarations and documents for a registration can, of course, be made digitally according to modern times. This UFI code of the company is now registered in Helsinki at the ECHA and is thus available to all doctors at any place in Europe in case of accidents. The GAGT e.V. is, of course, happy to assist all members with registration on request.
However, bottling plants that are only active in Germany can also submit their UFI code to the Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) for registration. Applications for this can also be found digitally on their website. However, the GAGT e.V. is of the opinion that a uniform UFI code, valid for all members, should not be used for an application to the ECHA or the BfR.
Reason:
If, for whatever reason, the same UFI code is used for an investigation/inspection, e.g. by market surveillance in Europe/Germany, it will be very difficult not to be subject to general suspicion under the motto: ONE FOR ALL. That is why it is appropriate for each company to be independent in the matter. Also, in general goods traffic, an exact identification of a product with your company is immediately recognisable, and thus serves as a disclaimer for the company. Please remember that in most cases, damage occurs to and with people and this could therefore also be accompanied by considerable claims for damages by customers/consumers. Of course, filling stations/LPG service stations are also obliged to include a UFI code in their safety data sheets, which must also be presented by an LPG/fuel gas supplier on request by a customer. The same applies to the supply of LPG/fuel gas for the heating gas tank outside a house, or on the property of the house owner or on the premises of a company.
signed. Peter Ziegler
