What is a safety data sheet used for?

A safety data sheet (SDS) is a critical document that provides comprehensive information regarding hazardous materials. It is designed to inform users about the properties of the chemical substances they may encounter, including their hazards, safe handling practices, emergency measures, and regulatory information. By outlining the potential risks associated with specific chemicals, the SDS helps organizations ensure compliance with occupational safety and health regulations and keep employees safe from exposure to hazardous materials.

While operational instructions for equipment are important for safe functioning, they are typically not included on a safety data sheet. Maintenance logs are focused on tracking the upkeep of equipment rather than chemical hazards, and inventory logs serve the purpose of managing stock levels rather than providing safety information about the chemicals themselves. Thus, the primary role of a safety data sheet is to provide essential information on chemical hazards directly from the manufacturer, ensuring safe handling and use.