Regulatory Compliance in Aerosol Manufacturing: A UK Perspective
In the world of aerosol manufacturing, regulatory compliance is not just a formality—it’s a critical foundation that ensures product safety, legal integrity, and consumer trust. At Hydrokem, we understand the complexities of the regulatory landscape and work closely with our clients to ensure every product we manufacture meets or exceeds all applicable UK and international requirements.
This guide offers a comprehensive overview of the key regulatory frameworks relevant to aerosol manufacturing in the UK and how Hydrokem ensures full compliance at every stage of the production process.
Why Regulatory Compliance Matters
Compliance in aerosol manufacturing is essential to:
- Protect end users from health and safety risks
- Prevent environmental harm
- Avoid legal penalties or product recalls
- Ensure smooth market access across the UK and internationally
Failure to comply with applicable regulations can result in severe consequences for both manufacturers and brand owners, making it vital to work with an experienced and proactive partner.
Key Regulations Governing Aerosols in the UK
1. Aerosol Dispensers Regulations 2009
This is the core UK regulation for aerosol products, outlining safety standards for pressure resistance, labelling, and volume limitations. It is derived from EU Directive 75/324/EEC and applies to all pre-pressurised containers.
Key requirements:
- Use of flame symbols and hazard statements
- Clear instructions for use and disposal
- Rigorous pressure testing for container durability
Hydrokem ensures all aerosol products are tested and labelled in accordance with these rules before distribution.
2. UK REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals)
Since Brexit, UK REACH operates independently from EU REACH. It governs the use of chemical substances and requires manufacturers or importers to register substances used in formulations.
How Hydrokem complies:
- We use pre-registered or approved substances
- We conduct substance assessments for new product formulations
- We work with suppliers and data holders to maintain full traceability
3. CLP Regulation (Classification, Labelling and Packaging)
The CLP Regulation ensures that chemicals are properly classified and clearly communicated to users through consistent labelling and packaging.
Hydrokem's approach includes:
- Reviewing Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for all raw materials
- Assigning correct hazard pictograms and signal words
- Applying standardised warning labels on all aerosols
4. Detergents Regulation (for air fresheners and cleaning products)
If an aerosol is classified as a detergent (e.g. air fresheners or multi-surface sprays), it must meet additional labelling and information obligations under this regulation.
Hydrokem’s compliance steps include:
- Listing ingredients on packaging
- Providing allergen declarations
- Hosting ingredient lists online if required
5. VOC Compliance (Volatile Organic Compounds)
Aerosols must comply with limits on VOC content under The Environmental Protection (Controls on Ozone-Depleting Substances) Regulations and other UK air quality legislation.
At Hydrokem, we develop low-VOC and VOC-compliant formulations to help clients meet eco-labelling and environmental targets.
Hydrokem’s In-House Regulatory Support
Navigating the intricacies of compliance is a full-time job—and that’s why Hydrokem has a dedicated technical and regulatory affairs team. We manage all aspects of compliance on behalf of our clients, from formulation assessments and labelling verification to documentation preparation and supplier liaison.
Our services include:
- Compliance checks for new product briefs
- Preparation of CLP and REACH-compliant SDSs
- Pressure vessel certification and testing
- Advice on Brexit-related regulatory changes
- Documentation support for exports
Post-Brexit Changes in Aerosol Compliance
Since the UK’s departure from the EU, manufacturers and importers must comply with UK-specific regulations, separate from EU systems. This includes:
- UKCA marking instead of CE marking
- UK-based Responsible Person if exporting into the UK
- Adjusted reporting requirements under UK REACH
Hydrokem stays up to date with all regulatory developments, ensuring that your product remains compliant and market-ready in the UK and beyond.
Compliance from Start to Finish
Our compliance process begins the moment a product brief is received. From ingredient sourcing and packaging design to final labelling and documentation, every step is audited and verified to meet the necessary legal obligations.
We also offer support during audits by regulatory bodies and can provide clients with technical documentation for submission to authorities if required.
Partner with a Compliant, Responsible Manufacturer
Choosing a manufacturer that prioritises regulatory compliance is essential to launching safe, lawful, and commercially successful aerosol products. At Hydrokem, our clients benefit from years of experience, technical expertise, and a proactive approach to legal and safety obligations.
Whether you’re launching a household air freshener or a car care aerosol, we’ll ensure your product is compliant, competitive, and market-ready.
