1.
The SDS Replaces the MSDS
• OSHA has adopted the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and
Labeling of
Chemicals (GHS) as part of the Hazard Communication Standard.
• As a result of the implementation of GHS, a safety data sheet (SDS) has been
created to replace the material safety data sheet (MSDS).
The SDS standardizes chemical safety and health information for chemicals
produced or used in any country in the world, including the United States.
• The SDS serves essentially the same purpose as the MSDS but is written in a
standardized 16-section format and may contain more information and detail
about
chemical hazards and protection.
2. An SDS Is Required for Every Hazardous Chemical in the Workplace
• The SDS provides safety and health information about chemicals in the
workplace.
• An SDS must be available at all times for each hazardous chemical in the
workplace.
• Chemical manufacturers and importers are responsible for obtaining or
developing an SDS for each hazardous chemical they produce and must
provide copies with the initial shipment.
• The SDS must be written in English, although there may be additional
copies in other
languages for workers who do not speak or read English well.
3. The 16 Sections of the SDS Provide Important Safety and Health
Information
• Section 1 Identification-includes product identifier, manufacturer or
distributor name, address, phone number, emergency phone number,
recommended use, and restrictions on use
• Section 2 Hazard(s) identification-includes all hazards regarding the
chemical and required label elements
• Section 3 Composition/Information on ingredients -includes
information on chemical ingredients and trade secret claims
• Section 4 First-aid measures-includes important immediate or delayed
symptoms of exposure to a chemical and the required first-aid treatment
• Section 5 Fire-fighting measures-lists suitable extinguishing
techniques, equipment, and chemical hazards from fire
• Section 6 Accidental release measures-lists emergency procedures,
protective equipment, and proper methods of containment and cleanup
• Section 7 Handling and storage-lists precautions for safe handling and
storage, including incompatibilities
• Section 8 Exposure controls/Personal protection-lists OSHA's
permissible exposure limits (PELs), threshold limit values (TLVs), appropriate
engineering controls, and personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Section 9 Physical and chemical properties-lists the chemical's
characteristics
• Section 10 Stability and reactivity-lists chemical stability and possible
hazardous reactions
• Section 11 Toxicological information-includes routes of exposure
(inhalation, ingestion, or absorption contact), symptoms, acute and chronic
effects, and numerical measures of toxicity
• Section 12 Ecological information-how the chemical might affect the
environment and the duration of the effect
• Section 13 Disposal considerations-describes safe handling of wastes and
methods of disposal, including the disposal of any contaminated packaging
• Section 14 Transportation information-includes packing, marking, and
labeling requirements for hazardous chemical shipments
• Section 15 Regulatory information-indicates regulations that apply to
chemical
• Section 16 Other information-includes date of preparation or last
revision
