SDS Safety Data Sheets and Chemical Labels (MACP 303? W1L1)

Safety Data Sheets And Chemical Labels

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Saftey Data Sheets

In 2012, OSHA updated the HCS to align with the United Nations' Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS). This update required changes to OSHA's old Material Safety Data Sheets. With standardization, the warnings are now called Safety Data Sheets (SDS).Safety Data Sheets provide comprehensive and consistent information about chemical hazards and safety precautions. Now, companies that make or bring in chemicals must understand how dangerous they are and sort them into categories accordingly. This standardization helps make sure everyone knows the risks involved with chemicals and makes workplaces safer.

Navigating Safety Data Sheets (SDS)A Complete Guide | HazCom Training

Parts of the Safety Data Sheet

Mandatory

Nonmandatory

Safety Data Sheets (SDS) are information sheets that are required by OSHA for every hazardous chemical. This helps workers find information quickly in case of an accident or emergency. The SDS has mandatory and nonmandatory sections. Click the icons to learn about each!

Mandatory Sections of the SDS

MandatorySections

10

11

Non-Mandatory Sections of the SDS

13

14

15

16

12

non-MandatorySections

Chemical Labels

While Safety Data Sheets provide detailed written information about chemical hazards and precautions, employees also need quick, at-a-glance warnings. That’s where chemical labels come in. These labels use standardized words, statements, and pictograms under the GHS system to ensure hazards are communicated instantly, even before opening a container. All hazard chemical labels must include the following in alignment with GHS.

• Manufacturers name and address
• Product identifier
• Signal words
• Hazard statement
• Precautionary Statement
• Pictograms

Select the image to view it in full screen.

GHS Pictograms and Hazard Classes

Each pictogram on a chemical label isn’t just a symbol—it represents one or more specific hazard classes. Understanding these classes helps us know exactly what kind of risks we’re dealing with.Click each pictogram to learn its hazard class(es).

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4. First-Aid Measures

Includes the initial care that should be rendered after exposure, including routes of exposure, symptoms, and special treatments, if needed.

Hazard Class

• Acute Toxicity (severe)

Hazard Classes

• Flammables
• Self Reactives
• Pyrophorics
• Self-Heating
• Emits Flammable Gas
• Organic Peroxides

11. Toxicological Information

Likely routes, effects from exposure, and symptoms.

1. Identification

Includes the chemical, its intended uses, and the contact information of the supplier.

Hazard Class

• Gases Under Pressure

Hazard Classes

• Carcinogen
• Respiratory Sensitizer
• Reproductive Toxicity
• Target Organ Toxicity
• Mutagenicity
• Aspiration Toxicity

15. Regulatory Information

Includes regulations not found elsewhere on the SDS

Hazard Class

• Oxidizers

7. Handling and Storage

This section includes handling and hygiene practices and storage requirements, including incompatible chemicals and ventilation requirements.

Hazard Class

• Corrosives

9. Physical and Chemical Properties

Information about the appearance, odor, pH, melting and boiling points, flash point, and solubility is found in this section.

Non-Mandatory Sections

The remaining sections, 12 through 16, provide additional information such as ecological effects, disposal considerations, transport details, and regulatory information. While not required by OSHA, they can be valuable for environmental compliance, shipping, and overall chemical management.

Mandatory Sections

The first eleven sections of the Safety Data Sheet are mandatory under OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard. These cover critical information such as product identification, hazards, safe handling, exposure controls, and first aid measures—everything workers need to safely use and respond to chemical exposures.

14. Transport Information

This section may include information and guidance on shipping by air, land, or sea.

10. Stability and Reactivity

This section includes information on reactivity data, stability under normal conditions, and other information regarding hazardous reactions.

Hazard Class

• Environmental Toxicity

8. Exposure Controls/Personal Protection

In this section, you will find information about exposure limits, required engineering controls, and PPE necessary to reduce exposure.

3. Composition/Information on Ingredients

All ingredients included in the product.

6. Accidental Release Measures

This section will include any actions that should be taken in case of spills, leaks, or releases, including containment, and cleanup.

16. Other Information

This section may include when the SDS was prepared or revised and changes made in the revision.

13. Disposal Considerations

This section includes appropriate disposal, recycling, or reclamation of the chemical or its package.

5. Fire-Fighting Measures

This section of the SDS will include information on proper equipment needed for extinguishing the fire, specific hazards resulting from the chemical during a fire, and any necessary special protective equipment.

Hazard Classes

• Irritant
• Dermal Sensitizer
• Acute Toxicity (harmful)
• Narcotic Effects
• Respiratory Tract
• Irritation

Hazard Classes

• Explosives
• Self Reactives
• Organic Peroxides

2. Hazard(s) Identification

This section includes the chemical's hazard, including the hazard classification (i.e. flammable), signal word, hazard statement, pictogram, and precautionary statement.

12. Ecological Information

This section of the SDS includes information on the environmental impact if the chemical is released.