The Importance of Safety Data Sheets
What is a safety data sheet?
Safety Data Sheet (SDS), or previously known as Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) is a document that has hazard information about the chemical you are using. It tells you the properties of the chemical, how it affects your health and the environment and how to manage and deal with the risks associated with the chemical.
Why is safety data sheet important?
Safety data sheets are important because it protects you, the person who is using the chemical and your workplace from any accidents, fire, explosion or death that results from storing, using and transporting these hazardous chemicals. If there is a fire, firefighters can refer to the SDS on how to properly extinguish the fire caused by the chemical. If there is accidental ingestion, one of your health and safety people can refer to the SDS for first aid measures.
What does a good safety data sheet require?
A good safety data sheet:
- Must be prepared by the manufacturer of the chemical - someone who is competent to write the SDS that is compliant.
- Must be provided by your distributor, supplier or manufacturer of the chemical
- Must be provided free of charge
- Must be stored in a place accessible by everyone including your local emergency services
- Employees must know where it is stored
- Employees must know how to read them
- Must have 16 headings
- Must be dated and have page numbers.
- Must be clear
How long does SDS last?
It is recommended to update and revised your safety data sheet every five years. The date of preparation for Green Rhino Safety Data Sheets is normally in section 1. For other SDS, it can be found in section 16.
What are the different sections of an SDS?
A properly written safety data sheet must have the following 16 Headings:
Identification of the material and the supplier
- Hazards Identification
- Composition / Information on Ingredients
- First Aid Measures
- Fire Fighting Measures
- Accidental Release Measures
- Handling and Storage
- Exposure Control / Personal Protection
- Physical and Chemical Properties
- Stability and Reactivity
- Toxicological Information
- Exotoxicological Information
- Disposal Consideration
- Transport Information
- Regulatory Information
- Other Information
Where can I find Green Rhino Safety Data Sheets?
Green Rhino Safety Data Sheets can be downloaded on its dedicated product page. It also has its own dedicated Safety Data Sheet page if you need to download a couple of SDS which can be found here.
For more information about safety data sheets and other best hygiene safety practices, contact of our hygiene experts or email us at sales@greenrhino.co.nz
Disclaimer: The articles are written with the best intentions but are of a general nature only for users who accept full responsibility for its use. Where advice is sought for specific requirements then the advice from a professional consultant would be required. We do not make any warranties about the completeness, reliability and accuracy of the articles. Any action you take upon the information from this blog is strictly at your own risk. We will not be held liable for any losses and damages (whether direct or consequential) in connection with the use of this blog. We suggest that you seek professional advice to obtain solutions specific to your cleaning needs.