Safety Data Sheet (SDS)

What It Means

Safety Data Sheets (formerly called Material Safety Data Sheets or MSDS) are required under OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard (29 CFR 1910.1200) for every hazardous chemical used, stored, or handled in the workplace. The 2012 HazCom update aligned SDS format with the Globally Harmonized System (GHS), establishing a uniform 16-section format. The sections cover: identification, hazard identification, composition/ingredients, first-aid measures, fire-fighting measures, accidental release measures, handling and storage, exposure controls/personal protection, physical and chemical properties, stability and reactivity, toxicological information, ecological information, disposal considerations, transport information, regulatory information, and other information. Chemical manufacturers and importers are responsible for preparing SDS for their products. Employers must maintain SDS for every hazardous chemical in the workplace and ensure they are readily accessible to workers during their shifts. Failure to maintain accessible SDS is one of the most common Hazard Communication violations cited by OSHA. Workers have the right to request and receive SDS for any chemical they work with.

Frequently Asked Questions