Safety Data Sheet: A Critical Part of COSHH Compliance

A Safety Data Sheet (SDS) plays a vital role in ensuring compliance with COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health) regulations. It provides crucial information about the dangers of substances or mixtures and offers guidance on safe handling and storage. SDSs are indispensable tools for anyone working with hazardous substances and must always be consulted before starting work. By law, manufacturers and importers of hazardous substances must prepare SDSs for their products, making them available to customers upon request. 

What is a Safety Data Sheet?

A Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is a document that offers detailed information on hazardous chemicals and guidelines on how to handle them safely. An SDS typically includes: 

• The name and address of the manufacturer or supplier 

• The chemical identity of the substance 

• Hazardous ingredients 

• Physical and chemical properties 

• Firefighting measures 

• First aid measures 

• Accidental release measures 

• Handling and storage instructions 

• Emergency telephone numbers 

SDSs are indispensable for COSHH compliance, ensuring safety when handling hazardous substances. 

The benefits of using Safety Data Sheets

Safety Data Sheets provide vital information to help manage risks associated with hazardous substances. Key benefits include: 

• Identifying potential hazards of a substance. 

• Assessing risks posed by a substance. 

• Choosing appropriate control measures. 

• Implementing effective safety protocols. 

• Monitoring the effectiveness of implemented measures. 

How to use a Safety Data Sheet

SDSs, required under the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS), provide clear hazard and safety information. Manufacturers or importers prepare SDSs for their chemical products, which must be readily available upon request. When working with chemicals: 

• Always consult the SDS for hazard and safety information. 

• Follow the guidelines for safe handling, storage, and disposal. 

• Use personal protective equipment (PPE) as specified. 

The importance of keeping Safety Data Sheets up to date

Keeping Safety Data Sheets current is essential for several reasons: 

• Changes in Chemical Properties: New uses or better understanding of hazards may arise over time. 

• Regulatory Updates: Changes in classification or labelling requirements impact the information presented. 

• Internal Procedures: Company policies and safety measures may evolve, requiring updated SDSs. 

What to do if a Safety Data Sheet is unavailable

If an SDS is missing for any chemical you use, immediately contact the manufacturer or supplier to request one. Until you receive the SDS, handle the substance with extra caution, adhering to general safety precautions. 

Thank you for taking the time to read our Safety Data Sheet blog. We hope you found it informative and useful. We invite you to explore more of our blog content, including our blog titled: 5 Considerations for Transferring Harsh Chemicals Safely. We encourage you to check out our blog pages regularly and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and other social media to stay connected and share our content with your friends and colleagues.

Looking for a reliable, cost-effective way to keep your workplace safe and secure? The Knights of Safety Ltd is the perfect solution for you!

At The Knights of Safety Ltd., we specialize in Safety Data Sheet management, offering innovative safety solutions to meet your needs. Our services include updating and managing SDSs to ensure compliance and workplace safety. Call us at 0161 884 4156 or email us at contact@thechemicalsafetyassociation.org.

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Your questions about Safety Data Sheets answered!

What is a Safety Data Sheet (SDS)?

A Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is a document containing information about the potential hazards of a chemical product and advice about safety precautions that should be taken when handling and storing it. In the UK, these documents are known as COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health) sheets.

Who should use a Safety Data Sheet?

Any person handling, storing or using a chemical product should be aware of the hazards associated with that product and use a Safety Data Sheet to ensure that they are taking the necessary precautions to keep themselves and others safe.

Where can I find a Safety Data Sheet?

The manufacturer or supplier of the chemical product should provide Safety Data Sheets. Alternatively, you can search for the specific product online and find a downloadable SDS.

What information is included in a Safety Data Sheet?

A Safety Data Sheet will include information regarding the potential hazards of the product, the necessary precautions to take when handling and storing it and advice on how to deal with spills or accidents, among other things.

Is it a legal requirement to have a Safety Data Sheet?

Yes, it is a legal requirement in the UK for manufacturers and suppliers of chemicals to provide Safety Data Sheets to anyone who is handling, storing or using the product.