Issued by
Manufacturer
Received by
Handlers/Employers
How long to keep it
Keep the SDS while the chemical is in use. After that, keep a record of the chemical and where and when it was used for 30 years; the SDS itself can serve as that record.
29 CFR 1910.1020(d)(1)(ii)(B) (opens in a new tab)When it's used
- OSHA compliance
- Chemical handling
- Emergency response
Legal significance
Required by the OSHA Hazard Communication Standard (29 CFR 1910.1200). Chemical manufacturers and importers prepare an SDS for each hazardous chemical, and employers keep one for every hazardous chemical in the workplace where employees can reach it.
What goes on it
| Field | Description | Required |
|---|---|---|
| Section 1: Identification | Product identifier and recommended use | Yes |
| Section 2: Hazard(s) Identification | All hazards and required label elements | Yes |
| Section 3: Composition | Chemical ingredients and concentrations | Yes |
| Section 4: First-Aid Measures | Emergency treatment procedures | Yes |
| Section 5: Fire-Fighting Measures | Extinguishing methods and precautions | Yes |
| Section 6: Accidental Release | Spill cleanup procedures | Yes |
| Section 7: Handling and Storage | Safe handling practices | Yes |
| Section 8: Exposure Controls/PPE | Exposure limits and protective equipment | Yes |
| Sections 9-16 | Physical/chemical properties, stability, toxicology, etc. | Yes |