Date Posted:1 August 2023 

Safety Data Sheets ( SDS), formerly known as Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS), play a crucial role in ensuring the safe use, handling, and storage of hazardous chemicals and dangerous goods in workplaces. These information- packed documents provide essential details that help reduce the risks associated with such substances, safeguarding both employees and the environment.

 

An SDS is a standardised document that contains comprehensive information about hazardous chemicals. It is a legal requirement for manufacturers and importers to provide SDS for their products before manufacturing or importing them. Additionally, the SDS must be reviewed at least once  every five years or whenever significant changes occur, ensuring that the information remains current and accurate.

 

The content of an SDS is structured in various sections, covering critical aspects of the chemical’s properties and hazards. It includes identification, hazard identification, composition, first-aid measures, firefighting measure, handling and storage instructions, exposure controls, physical and chemical properties, toxicological information, ecological impact, disposal considerations, transport information, regulatory details, and other relevant information. This wealth of knowledge empowers workers to handle chemicals responsibly and respond appropriately in case of accidents or emergencies.

 

Access to SDS can be provided in physical or digital formats, ensuring that workers can easily access the information in their work area. Employers must ensure that workers have the necessary computer skills to access digital SDS in case of power outages or emergencies.

Regular review and updating of SDS are essential to reflect any changes in chemical properties or safety information. Manufacturers or importers must verify that SDS from other countries conform to Australian classification criteria and make necessary adjustments, such as adding local contact details and units of measurement.

Proper labelling of hazardous chemical containers is also vital for workplace safety. The label should be in English and include these details 

  • Section 1 – Identification: product identifier and chemical identity 
  • Section 2 – Hazard(s) identification 
  • Section 3 – Composition and information on ingredients 
  • Section 4 – First aid measures 
  • Section 5 – Firefighting measures 
  • Section 6 – Accidental release measures 
  • Section 7– Handling and storage, including how the chemical may be safely used 
  • Section 8 – Exposure controls and 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 – Any other relevant information 

 

Certain circumstances, like dual-use products, food and beverages, and therapeutic goods, may be exempt from WHS labelling provisions, but large quantities intended for workplace use must be labelled appropriately.

 

How does this apply to you?

Safety Data Sheets and proper labelling are indispensable tools for promoting workplace safety when dealing with hazardous chemicals. By providing essential information and guidelines, SDS contribute significantly to reducing risks, preventing accidents, and ensuring the well-being of workers and the environment. 

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