How to Organize MSDS Requirements

A material safety data sheet (MSDS) can be a valuable ally of employers, employees and emergency workers. These sheets are required by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration and document the composition and handling procedures for stored substances. While OSHA requires these documents to be kept on hand at companies, there are few specific requirements for them. The format and storage of MSDSs is largely up to employers. However, keeping MSDSs well organized, updated and within easy reach of employees can not only satisfy OSHA, but can also save lives if information on handling dangerous chemicals or materials is needed.

Things You'll Need

• Translation service (optional)
• Three-ring binder

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Instructions

• 1

  Translate any documents in a foreign language to English. MSDSs must be in English. Keep MSDSs in every work area where they can be easily accessed by employees in case of an OSHA inspection.

• 2

  Organize MSDSs alphabetically. Cross-reference any material listed under multiple names in the MSDS so that employees and inspectors can find entries quickly and easily. Avoid organizing MSDSs by category; employees may be confused about how to list an item in the MSDS, which can lead to omissions or errors. Keep all MSDSs in a three-ring binder.

• 3

  Scan MSDSs into an electronic database accessible to company employees. Avoid relying on online or automated services to catalog MSDSs; these services can omit some chemicals and materials. However, using technology to organize MSDSs you already have can keep your records straight when inspectors come knocking.

• 4

  Update current MSDS records. Keep an MSDS for every brand name material your company stocks and update the MSDS if the company's name changes or if companies merge.