Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
The HCS requires chemical manufacturers, distributors, or importers to provide Safety Data Sheets (SDSs) (formerly MSDSs or Material Safety Data Sheets) for each hazardous chemical to downstream users to communicate information on these hazards.
SDSs are required to be presented in a consistent user-friendly, 16-section format. We will discuss this format in this module.
The SDS includes information such as:
- the properties of each chemical
- the physical, health, and environmental health hazards
- protective measures
- safety precautions for handling, storing, and transporting the chemical
The information contained in the SDS must be in English (although OSHA encourages employers to provide SDSs in other languages as well). OSHA requires that SDS preparers provide specific minimum information as detailed in Appendix D of 29 CFR 1910.1200.
The SDS preparers may also include additional information in various section(s). Employers must ensure that SDSs are readily accessible to employees.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
2-1. In what language must the SDS information be written?
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