Using Safety Data Sheets
When working with chemicals, you must become familiar with these substances’ key characteristics to take the proper safety precautions and avoid serious incidents. That’s where safety data sheets (SDSs) can help.
An SDS provides information about a substance’s unique properties, precautions for safe handling, tips for adequate use and storage, potential health hazards and first-aid procedures. Before working with a new chemical, always reference its associated SDS.
The easiest way to locate a substance’s SDS is by reviewing the chemical name on the product’s label. The SDS information may seem a bit confusing at first, so here are the main details to look out for:
- Chemical identification
- Hazard identification
- Composition/information on ingredients
- First-aid measures
- Firefighting procedures
- Accidental release protocols
- Handling and storage practices
- Exposure controls and personal protection measures
- Physical and chemical properties
- Stability and reactivity considerations
- Toxicological information
- Ecological information
- Disposal considerations
- Transport information
- Regulatory information
- Other information (if applicable)
It’s best to review a chemical’s SDS, learn the substance’s hazardous properties and understand appropriate emergency response measures before an incident occurs. For example, if a chemical splashes into a co-worker’s eyes, you’ll want to know how to help immediately rather than waste valuable time by having to track down the SDS for first-aid recommendations.
Remember, while SDS instructions can be helpful in emergencies, they do not replace those of a health care professional. If a chemical incident does occur, be sure to contact the appropriate medical personnel immediately.
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