What is a Safety Data Sheet (SDS)?
A Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is a standardized document used to communicate detailed information about the hazards of a chemical product from the manufacturer or importer to the end user. The SDS provides essential data needed to inform and train employees on the safe handling, storage, and use of hazardous chemicals in the workplace.
Under OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard (HCS), employers are required to maintain an SDS for every hazardous chemical used in their facility. This module will review the structure of an SDS, the information it must contain, and the responsibilities for maintaining an effective SDS management system.
Who Must Have an SDS?
- Chemical Manufacturers and Importers:
Must obtain or develop an SDS for each hazardous chemical they produce or import.- If an employer mixes chemicals and a chemical reaction occurs, they may be considered a manufacturer and must prepare a new SDS for the resulting product.
- If no reaction occurs and the chemicals do not interact, the employer may use the existing SDSs for each individual component.
- When in doubt about chemical mixtures, employers should consult OSHA or an environmental health and safety professional.
- Employers:
Must maintain an SDS for each hazardous chemical present in the workplace. These SDSs must be readily accessible to all employees during each work shift.