What is a Safety Data Sheet?
A Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is a structured document, available either digitally or on paper, that accompanies a specific chemical substance or mixture. It provides detailed information about the product’s properties, potential hazards to humans and the environment, and practical guidance for safe handling, storage, transport, and disposal. The purpose of the SDS is to help prevent accidents, protect health, and reduce the risk of environmental damage.
What does a Safety Data Sheet contain?
An SDS contains systematically organized information that enables the safe use and handling of a chemical product. The content is divided into 16 main sections covering everything from basic identification to more technical details. It specifies who the supplier is, how the product should be classified and labeled, and what substances it contains. It also includes important instructions on first aid in case of an accident, how to extinguish a fire, and what actions to take in the event of a spill or release.
The SDS provides guidelines for safe handling and storage, the use of personal protective equipment, and exposure limit values. In addition, it includes information about the product’s physical and chemical properties, stability, potential health effects, environmental impact, waste disposal, transport regulations, and relevant legislation. Altogether, it offers a complete guide for safe chemical management.
According to legislation, all professional users and distributors must have quick and easy access to the Safety Data Sheet. The document is therefore not merely a formality but a key tool in chemical management. The responsibility for creating and updating the SDS lies with suppliers and EU importers, who must ensure that the content is always based on the most recent knowledge. If new information arises regarding health hazards, classification, or safe use, the sheet must be revised without unnecessary delay.
The rules for when a Safety Data Sheet must be provided, and what information it must include, are defined in Article 31 of the REACH Regulation (EC No. 1907/2006). This ensures a common European standard, allowing companies throughout the EU and EEA to follow the same guidelines. In this way, the Safety Data Sheet contributes both to increased workplace safety and to more responsible chemical management in society.
We Simplify Your Work With Safety Data Sheets
Our EHS consultants have extensive experience working with safety data sheets and are happy to help you review, translate, and create new safety data sheets for your chemical products.
If you want to streamline and simplify the use of your safety data sheets, contact us directly and we will tailor a solution.
