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MSDS Requirements

Material Data Safety Sheets (MSDS) are information sheets giving all specifications of the chemicals used in the workplace. This is a requirement by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Chemicals include everything from window cleaner to film developer and oil to starter fluid. All businesses use chemicals and these sheets contain pertinent information about them.

  1. Availability Requirements

    • All MSDS sheets for chemicals used in a workplace must be prominently displayed for employee reference. The sheets can be displayed either by posting on a wall near where the chemicals are stored or used, or in a bright yellow MSDS book provided by OSHA in plain sight.

      Sheets must also be available for viewing of guests or customers upon their request, but businesses do not have to make a copy available for the customer to take.

    Information

    • There is a set template of information that is required to be on an MSDS sheet, and all sheets must be written in English according to OSHA. Information required includes name of chemical, other common names, list of all ingredients, list of any ingredients that are carcinogens or could pose a health hazard and any other hazard that can be caused by the chemical.

      Other information that should be on an MSDS is any clean up procedures and first aid instructions.

    Violations

    • Should an employer fail to meet the MSDS requirements as set forth by OSHA, it could face fines up to $70,000 or more, depending on the type of violation and how many violations the business is cited for at one time. Fines given are generally not set at the maximum, but the inspector has the right to fine in accordance to the regulations violated.

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