What is the purpose of safety data sheets (SDS)?

The purpose of safety data sheets (SDS) is to provide comprehensive information about the properties of hazardous chemicals. Each SDS contains details regarding the chemical’s hazards, handling and storage recommendations, exposure controls, personal protective equipment (PPE), and emergency response measures. This information is crucial for ensuring the safety of workers who may handle these substances, as it helps them understand the risks associated with exposure and how to manage those risks effectively.

In contrast, while emergency contact information is important for safety, it is only one aspect of an SDS and not its primary purpose. Summarizing workplace safety procedures does not fall within the specific focus of an SDS, as they are more concentrated on the individual chemical rather than overarching workplace procedures. Lastly, while listing all chemicals present in a facility may be useful, SDSs are focused on providing detailed information about specific hazardous chemicals rather than an inventory of all substances present.