The UK’s chemicals regulatory framework is set for a significant update, following the introduction of new legislation and the publication of consultation responses by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

The Chemicals (Health and Safety) (Amendment, Consequential and Transitional Provision) Regulations 2026 have now been laid before Parliament, marking a key step in evolving Great Britain’s chemicals regime post-EU exit.

The changes build on powers introduced under the Retained EU Law (Revocation and Reform) Act 2023 and reflect a broader effort to ensure regulation keeps pace with industry, innovation, and economic priorities.

HSE’s role extends beyond workplace safety, it also provides public assurance and oversees the safe use, classification, and trade of chemicals across Great Britain. Updating this framework is part of its long-term strategy to support both protection and productivity.

What the Reforms Cover

The 2026 Regulations introduce targeted amendments across three key areas:

• GB Biocidal Products Regulation (GB BPR) - updates to approval and authorisation processes

• GB Classification, Labelling and Packaging (GB CLP) - changes to how chemicals are classified and labelled

• GB Prior Informed Consent (PIC) - refinements to import and export procedures for hazardous chemicals

The aim is to streamline processes, improve flexibility, and address operational challenges identified since the UK established its standalone system.

These changes follow an HSE consultation held between June and August 2025, which gathered input from industry, professional bodies, and other stakeholders.

The response highlights:

• Broad support for modernising the regulatory framework

• Concerns around transition timelines and clarity of guidance

• Questions about compliance costs and implementation

At the same time, respondents emphasised the need to maintain high standards of health and environmental protection, while ensuring the system remains practical and internationally aligned.

The consultation also reflects a wider government focus on ensuring regulation supports economic growth.

By refining processes and reducing unnecessary complexity, the reforms aim to lower administrative burden on businesses, while maintaining robust safeguards for workers, the public, and the environment.

HSE has been clear that effective, proportionate regulation not only protects people, but can also drive productivity and innovation.

What Happens Next?

The draft regulations will now go through parliamentary scrutiny in both the House of Commons and the House of Lords before coming into force.

Further guidance from HSE is expected, particularly to support organisations through any transitional changes and ensure compliance in practice.

This marks one of the most significant updates to Great Britain’s chemicals framework since EU exit.

For organisations working with hazardous substances, the focus now shifts to:

• Understanding how these changes apply in practice

• Preparing for updated requirements

• Ensuring systems and processes remain aligned

As more detail emerges, the emphasis will be on turning regulatory change into workable, real-world compliance.

Register here to visit The Health and Safety Event 2026, and hear directly from the HSE Executive: Get Access