Having SDSs on-site isn’t enough — workers must know how to use them.
Why It Matters:
SDSs contain vital safety information about the chemicals we work with, including hazards, first aid steps, handling procedures, and what PPE to wear. OSHA requires that employees are trained on how to read and apply the information in these sheets.
Key Points:
- SDSs are broken into 16 standardized sections — learn what’s in each.
- Focus on key sections: identification, hazard info, first-aid, handling, storage, and exposure controls.
- Review SDSs during onboarding, when new chemicals arrive, and during safety meetings.
- Don’t just hand them out — explain the important sections and when to refer back.
✅ Knowledge of SDSs = safer response to chemical exposure.
Ask the Crew:
- Have you been trained to read an SDS?
- What sections would you check after a chemical spill or exposure?
