An Overview of Safety Data Sheets

Every existing business should treat safety as a top priority, particularly businesses that deal with hazardous substances or risky environments. Safety Data Sheets (SDSs) are vital documents that provide crucial information about chemical hazards, helping businesses keep their workers informed and protected.

As long as your business uses substances or chemicals in any way, shape, or form, having Safety Data Sheets is non-negotiable.

What is a Safety Data Sheet?

A Safety Data Sheet is considered a technical document that contains comprehensive information about a specific chemical, whether as a product or in a product. It details its properties, any potential health or environmental hazards, as well as how to safely handle and store it.

The purpose of an SDS is to be a complete reference for a specific chemical that workers can use not just for knowledge, but safe practical applications as well.

Why do I need an SDS?

If the first parts of this blog have not led you to a personal answer, know that Safety Data Sheets are required by law for every workplace that uses or deals with hazardous chemicals. Employers must see to it that:

• Employees have 24/7 access to SDSs for all hazardous products
• Workers are given adequate training to read and understand Safety Data Sheets
• Safety practices indicated in the SDS are followed in accordance to the regulatory standards set by regulation bodies such as Health and Safety Executive (HSE) or Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)

Is an SDS hard to understand?

Simple answer, NO. With proper training, then it is a bigger NO. An SDS is standardized into 16 easily identifiable sections. Here’s a breakdown:

• Identification: contains product name, its manufacturer, and recommended uses
• Hazard Identification: any risks the product brings
• Composition/Ingredients: particularly focused on hazardous components
• First-Aid Measures: guidelines for dealing with exposure
• Accidental Release Measures: how to handle spills safely
• Firefighting Measures: how to properly extinguish product-related fires
• Handling and storage: how to safely use and store the product
• Exposure Controls/Personal Protection: recommended protective equipment
• Physical and Chemical Properties: key characteristics of the product
• Stability and Reactivity: conditions to watch out for when handling the product
• Toxicological Information: how the product potentially affects health
• Ecological Information: how the product potentially affects the environment
• Disposal Considerations: guidelines for safe product disposal
• Transport Information: key points for safe product transportation
• Regulatory Information: compliance and safety standards
• Other Information: additional details such as when the SDS was prepared and revised

It may seem a lot to read and understand, and the task can be daunting for some. It is understandable; however, it is a best practice to take the time to comprehend the details contained in every SDS. Safety is top priority, right?