MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEETS

 

The Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) is the hazard communication tool that provides details on all important aspects of chemical use, handling, and storage.  Review the appropriate MSDS when working with a chemical for the first time or when training staff.  Appendix A provides definitions to terms used within MSDSs.  The Chemical Hygiene Officer maintains MSDSs for all chemicals used at the laboratory.  MSDSs can be obtained by contacting the manufacturer or by browsing the below databases:

 

http://www.msdssearch.com/DBLinksN.htm

 

Here you will find information on every aspect of MSDSs including how to read, write, understand, and train employees to meet the Hazard Communication Standard.

http://www.ilpi.com/msds/index.html

Database of MSDS Databases “Where to Find MSDS’s on the Internet”.  The page lists over 85 Internet resources for MSDS information.

 

The OSHA Hazard Communication Standard (29 CFR 1910.1200) requires manufacturers to provide MSDSs at no cost.  The information is ideally divided into 10 Sections.

 

Section I of the MSDS lists information identifying the manufacturer and the product. It includes:

  • manufacturer's name, address and telephone number

  • number to call in case of emergency

  • chemical name and synonyms

  • trade name and synonyms

  • chemical family and formula

  • Chemical Abstract Number (CAS)

  • date of preparation

Section II describes the various hazardous ingredient(s) contained in the product, the percentage of ingredient(s), and exposure limits when appropriate.  This will include all hazardous chemicals that comprise 1% or greater of the mixture.  Carcinogens must be listed if the concentrations are 0.1% or greater.

 

Section III describes the physical properties of the material.  Physical properties include:

  • boiling point

  • specific gravity

  • vapor pressure

  • percent volatile

  • evaporation rate

  • solubility in water

  • appearance and odor

Section IV describes the fire and explosion hazard data for the material and other fire and explosion data.  The appropriate extinguishing agent for fires involving the material will be listed. Special fire fighting procedures may also be listed.

 

Section V describes the known health hazard data for the material and exposure limits. Symptoms or the health effects of an overexposure are listed.  This information will help the user and medical personnel recognize if an overexposure has occurred.

  • Threshold Limit Value (TLV)

  • existing medical conditions that may be aggravated by exposure

  • effects of overexposure (e.g., headache, nausea, narcosis, eye irritation, weakness, skin rashes)

  • primary routes of exposure (e.g., inhalation)

  • cancer and other special health hazards

  • emergency and first aid procedures

Section VI describes reactivity data; that is, the material's ability to react and release energy or heat under special conditions or when it comes in contact with certain substances.

 

Section VII provides instructions for the steps to be taken in case of an accidental release or spill.  The steps normally include information on containment, evacuation procedures, and waste disposal.

 

Section VIII describes the protective equipment required for the individual who might have to work with the substance.  This section normally describes worst case conditions; therefore, the extent to which personal protective equipment is required is task dependent.  Equipment may include:

  • respiratory equipment

  • ventilation

  • protective gloves

  • eye protection

  • other protective equipment

Section IX describes handling and storage procedures to be taken with the material. Information may include statements such as: keep container closed; store in a cool, dry, well ventilated area; keep refrigerated; avoid exposure to sunlight.

 

Section X describes any special precautions or miscellaneous information regarding the material.    

 

In some cases, manufacturers may choose to withhold certain information on a MSDS provided the information is trade secret.  Regardless of the existence of trade secrets, the MSDS must still contain all relevant hazard, protection, and health information.  Some MSDSs may not contain all ten sections or the information may be in a slightly different order.  However, the basic information described above must be provided. Some MSDSs are more complete than others. Do not assume everything you need to know is contained on the MSDS.  Do not assume if a section is left blank that there is no risk.