What is the purpose and format of the SDS?
A safety data sheet is a document created for substances or mixtures containing information on the composition, classification, safe usage, storage and disposal of the products. The SDS should provide comprehensive information about a substance or mixture for use in workplace. It should be a source of information, for both employers and workers, about hazards and advise on safety usage of product. The SDS follows a 16 section format which is internationally agreed. The 16 sections are:
SECTION 1: Identification of the substance/mixture and of the company/undertaking
SECTION 2: Hazards identification
SECTION 3: Composition/information on ingredients
SECTION 4: First aid measures
SECTION 5: Firefighting measures
SECTION 6: Accidental release measure
SECTION 7: Handling and storage
SECTION 8: Exposure controls/personal protection
SECTION 9: Physical and chemical properties
SECTION 10: Stability and reactivity
SECTION 11: Toxicological information
SECTION 12: Ecological information
SECTION 13: Disposal considerations
SECTION 14: Transport information
SECTION 15: Regulatory information
SECTION 16: Other information
Each manufacturer, importer, downstream user and distributor should ensure Safety Data Sheet is accessible at all the time for workers and shall be kept for a period of at least 10 years after the last manufacture, import, supply or use of the substance or mixture.
When do I need a Safety Data Sheet for my products?
An SDS is not primarily intended for use by the general consumer, but it must be provided if your product is being supplied for use at work e.g. supplied to retailers, hotels etc. You must also ensure that your product is labelled correctly in line with your Safety Data Sheet. You can find more information about CLP labelling here.