Safety data sheets (SDS) are documents used to keep track of hazardous chemicals and materials in the workplace. Understanding the information provided in safety data sheets is essential for businesses looking to maintain a safe and healthy environment for workers. In this overview, we’ll explain what a SDS includes and how to properly prepare one.
What are Safety Data Sheets?
Safety data sheets (SDS) are specially prepared documents that include information about hazardous chemicals and materials in the workplace. These documents provide important safety details related to a chemical or material, such as proper handling instructions, emergency procedures, physical properties, health hazards, and more. The goal of safety data sheets is to help employers protect workers by providing them with critical information about the chemicals they may be exposed to in the workplace.
Where Can I Obtain an SDS?
The best place to obtain a safety data sheet is from the supplier or manufacturer of the hazardous chemical or material. This is because they are familiar with the product and can provide accurate and up-to-date information. If you cannot contact the manufacturer directly, there are a variety of resources which offer SDSs, including government organizations, industry associations, and online databases. It’s important to ensure that the SDS you obtain is the most up-to-date version available.
What Information is Contained in an SDS?
Safety data sheets contain a wealth of important information, including Product Identification, Hazard Identification, Composition and Information on Components, First Aid Measures, Fire-Fighting Measures, Accidental Release measures and other handling and storage requirements. In addition, SDSs also provide information on exposure control/personal protection, toxicity data and ecological information. It’s important to make sure you understand all the information in a safety data sheet in order to be able to make informed decisions.
How to Read and Interpret an SDS
It is important to read and understand an SDS in order to make informed decisions. The SDS should be divided into 16 sections. Familiarizing yourself with the information and understanding terminology used within the SDS will help you know if a product is hazardous and what safety precautions should be taken during its use, storage, and disposal.
How to Use SDS Data Correctly and Safely
Before beginning work with a product, it is important to review and completely understand the safety data sheet. Knowing what information each section contains will ensure you are taking the right precautions when handling chemicals. It is also important to look out for information pertaining to personal protective equipment (PPE) and other safety measures. After proper understanding of the SDS, workers should adhere to this information while working with and maintaining the product.
Safety Data Sheet (SDS) FAQS
How Often Do Safety Data Sheets Need to Be Updated?
Safety data sheets needs to be updated as soon as there are changes in the material or use of the product. The frequency may vary depending on the regulations of a particular country, but it is generally advised that they should be reviewed at least once every three years.
Are Safety Data Sheets Required for all Chemicals?
Yes, safety data sheets are required for all chemicals in accordance with the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Hazard Communication Standard. All suppliers, distributors and employers who use hazardous chemicals must provide safety data sheets to workers so they can understand the hazards of the products they are handling or working with and be informed about appropriate safety measures to take.
When Do Safety Data Sheets Expire?
Safety data sheets typically expire after three years, but some may last longer depending on the chemicals being used and their expiration date. It is important to check the safety data sheets regularly to ensure that they are up-to-date and in compliance with the law.
Are Safety Data Sheets Required by OSHA?
Yes, safety data sheets (SDS) are required by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). The SDS is a standardized form that includes information about a particular chemical’s hazards, health effects, protective measures, and safe handling instructions.
Are Safety Data Sheets Public Information?
Yes, safety data sheets are public information. However, the contents of the sheet may vary depending on the specific industry and product being used. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires all hazardous chemicals produced or imported into the US to have safety data sheets that are readily accessible.
Are Safety Data Sheets Only for Chemicals?
No, safety data sheets (SDS) are not just for chemicals. They are useful sources of information about a variety of hazards in the workplace and can be used to identify the risks associated with a particular product or substance as well as provide guidance on how to safely handle and store it. SDSs are also used to give emergency personnel information for handling hazardous materials, so they are not limited to chemicals.
