What type of information can you find in the Material Safety Data Sheets?

Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS), now referred to as Safety Data Sheets (SDS), are critical documents that provide detailed information about hazardous substances used in workplaces. The primary purpose of an SDS is to convey information that promotes safe handling, storage, and use of chemical materials. This includes a wide variety of data such as the physical and chemical properties of the substances, potential hazards (including health risks and environmental impacts), safe exposure limits, appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), and instructions for safe handling and emergency measures in case of an incident.

While emergency contact information is important, it is not the main focus of the SDS. Similarly, general workplace policies and employee conduct guidelines address different aspects of workplace safety and organization that do not pertain specifically to the hazards of chemical materials. The concentration on hazard information ensures that employees are informed about the potential risks they may encounter in their work environment and the necessary steps to mitigate those risks effectively.