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Why Do I Need an MSDS?

A material safety data sheet, or MSDS, is required by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration for any chemical considered hazardous in the workplace. They are for commercial use only and not for use by end consumers.

  1. Toxic Information

    • An MSDS explains what parts of a compound are toxic, how they are toxic and what physical damage they can do when you come in contact with them, either on the skin or ingesting them.

    Protection

    • The information in an MSDS will explain how to protect yourself while using the hazardous compound. It will list what kind of protective clothing to wear, and how to properly handle the compound to avoid contact.

    Storing the Compound

    • Storing a hazardous material can be dangerous. An MSDS will explain exactly how to store a compound and how long it can be stored before it requires disposal.

    Disposal

    • There are many federal laws outlining the handling of hazardous materials. An MSDS will tell you how to legally dispose of a particular compound in accordance with federal law.

    Emergency

    • An MSDS will outline the precise steps you need to follow in case there is a leak or a spill involving the compound.

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