Safety Data Sheets
Access comprehensive safety information for all chemicals and materials used in our facilities.
What is an SDS?
Safety Data Sheets (formerly MSDS) provide:
- Chemical composition and hazards
- Safe handling procedures
- Emergency response information
- Personal protective equipment requirements
- Storage and disposal guidelines
- First aid measures
Accessing SDS Documents
Online Database:
- Visit the EHS portal
- Click "SDS Library"
- Search by product name or CAS number
- Download PDF or view online
- Available 24/7
Mobile App:
- Download SafetyFirst app
- Scan product barcode
- Instant SDS access
- Works offline after initial download
Physical Binders:
- Located at each safety station
- Organized alphabetically
- Updated monthly
- Use for quick reference
SDS Sections
All SDS follow 16-section format:
- Identification
- Hazard(s) identification
- Composition/information on ingredients
- First-aid measures
- Fire-fighting measures
- Accidental release measures
- Handling and storage
- Exposure controls/personal protection
- Physical and chemical properties
- Stability and reactivity
- Toxicological information
- Ecological information
- Disposal considerations
- Transport information
- Regulatory information
- Other information
Understanding Hazard Symbols
GHS Pictograms indicate:
- Flame: Flammable
- Exclamation Mark: Irritant, harmful
- Skull & Crossbones: Acute toxicity
- Corrosion: Skin/eye damage
- Gas Cylinder: Compressed gas
- Health Hazard: Long-term health effects
- Environment: Aquatic toxicity
- Exploding Bomb: Explosive
Employee Responsibilities
All employees must:
- Read SDS before using new materials
- Follow handling precautions
- Wear required PPE
- Know emergency procedures
- Report damaged or illegible labels
- Keep work areas clean
Supervisor Responsibilities
Supervisors ensure:
- SDS available for all chemicals
- Employees trained on SDS location
- Proper PPE provided and maintained
- Emergency equipment functional
- Annual SDS training completed
Requesting New SDS
If material lacks SDS:
- Contact EHS department immediately
- Provide product name and manufacturer
- Do not use material until SDS obtained
- EHS will obtain and add to database
- You'll be notified when available
Emergency Situations
Chemical Spill:
- Evacuate area if necessary
- Consult SDS Section 6 for cleanup
- Use appropriate PPE
- Contact EHS for large spills
- Document incident
Exposure:
- Follow SDS Section 4 (First Aid)
- Seek medical attention
- Bring SDS to medical facility
- Report to supervisor immediately
- Complete incident report
Updates and Revisions
SDS are updated when:
- New hazard information available
- Regulatory changes occur
- Product formulation changes
- Database updated automatically
- Old versions archived
Training Requirements
All employees receive:
- Initial SDS training during orientation
- Annual refresher training
- Job-specific training for chemicals used
- Training documented in personnel file
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often are SDS updated?
- As needed when information changes
- Typically reviewed every 3-5 years
- System shows last revision date
Q: Can I take an SDS home?
- Yes, download or print for reference
- Useful for understanding workplace chemicals
Q: What if I can't find an SDS?
- Contact EHS immediately: ext. 5555
- Do not use the material
- Report to supervisor
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