Safety regulations are an integral factor for any business or individual working with chemicals. As such, providing Safety Data Sheets has been a longstanding obligation. And they have been required by manufacturers, distributors, and importers alike.
This ruling is set by the Hazard Communication Standard. And it is used to identify and communicate any dangers derived from working with chemical materials.
Those forms were standardized on June 1, 2015. The modern format involves 16 sections that everyone in the industry must abide. Safety Data Sheets are a necessity and should be readily available to all employers and employees. Here are those headings, along with details regarding the content that should be included:
Section 1: Identification
This includes all the necessary information from name and address to contact details. This section should additionally include details on recommended use and restriction on use. It must also include the product identifier.
Section 2: Hazard(s) Identification
Employers or employees should list all hazards related to the chemical materials. Also includes the required label elements.
Section 3: Composition & Information On Ingredients
This includes data regarding chemical ingredients and trade secret claims.
Section 4: First-Aid Measures
This section of the SDS should list all symptoms and effects, along with necessary treatments. Must include delayed elements as well as immediate issues.
Section 5: Fire-Fighting Measures
The appropriate methods and equipment for extinguishing fires. This heading should also note any potential hazards that could be caused by fire.
Section 6: Accidental Release Measures
Under this heading, the SDS should include data on emergency procedures and protective equipment. There should also be data on containment and cleanup.
Section 7: Handling & Storage
This list should include all precautions required for suitable and safe handling and storage. It must also list any incompatibilities.
Section 8: Exposure Controls & Personal Protection
Under this heading, any recommended limits should be noted. This includes Permissible Exposure Limits and Threshold Limit Values. Should also offer data regarding Personal Protective Equipment.
Section 9: Physical & Chemical Properties
This section of the SDS needs to list all necessary data regarding the characteristics of those chemical materials.
Section 10: Stability & Reactivity
The user needs to note chemical stability. Furthermore, they should report any potentially hazardous reactions that could occur with other materials.
Section 11: Toxicological Information
Any adverse effects, including symptoms and avenues of exposure must be listed. This should cover both acute and chronic issues, as well as the measures of toxicity.
Section 12: Ecological Information
Details anything in relation to the ecological impacts. This information is regulated by external sources.
Section 13: Disposal Considerations
Includes clear instructions for suitable chemical disposal. This information is regulated by external sources.
Section 14: Transport Information
Lists data and precautions required for safe transportation of materials. This information is regulated by external sources.
Section 15: Regulatory Information
Covering the legal issues related to the chemicals. This information is regulated by external sources.
Section 16: Other Information
For more information visit the original sorce at OSHA