Definition

Sources for MSDS'

Requirements

 

Definition

An MSDS is a technical bulletin detailing information about a hazardous chemical.

The federal Standard that governs the design requirements of MSDS makes it one of the the most comprehensive source of written information for  employees.  There is no standard format for the MSDS that is specified but all  required information must be included. The MSDS must also be written in English  and, at a minimum, must contain the following:

the identity (any chemical or common name) that is used on the container label;

the chemical and common name of all ingredients having known health hazards if present in concentrations greater than 1%, and for carcinogens, if present at 0.1% or more;

the physical and chemical characteristics of the hazardous components;

the physical and health hazards including signs and symptoms of exposure and prior and/or existing contraindicating medical conditions;

the primary routes of entry;

any known exposure limits (OSHA PELs or ACGIH TLVs);

whether the hazardous chemical is listed in the NTP Annual Report on Carcinogens or is a potential carcinogen according to IARC or OSHA;

precautions for safe handling and use, and procedures for spill/leak cleanup;

control measures

emergency first aid procedures;

date of preparation, and

the name, address, and telephone number of the company or the responsible employee distributing the MSDS.

When an MSDS is prepared, the chemical has to be evaluated based on the  mandatory hazards determination requirements. When uncertainty exists  concerning a chemical's hazards, the preparer should be conservative in the  evaluation to ensure employee protection

Sources For MSDS

Manufacturer

Every chemical manufacturer or importer must develop or obtain an MSDS for each hazardous chemical it supplies.  Distributors also must provide MSDSs to other distributors and commercial purchasers of their hazardous chemicals.

Via the Internet

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As an employer,  Georgia State University must provide access to MSDSs for  each hazardous chemical in the workplace.  Right To Know provisions require  that MSDSs for hazardous chemicals be received with incoming shipments and  be maintained so that they can be made readily accessible to employees.

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