Chemical Management Key Topics: Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS)
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What is a MSDS?
A Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) provides informations about the hazards (health effects) of a chemical and how to use it safely. It also helps the user of a chemical to identify, assess and control risks associated with the use of the chemical in the workplace.
A MSDS must be written in English, must contain certain information and must be less than 5 years old. You can confirm that an MSDS meets regulatory requirements using the MSDS Checklist.
A MSDS should not be confused with a product specification sheet, which provides information on characteristics of the product and directions for use.
More information about MSDS is available in the Chemical Management Guidelines.
Users of Chemicals Must Have Access to MSDS
Staff and students who handle hazardous chemicals or work where hazardous chemicals are stored must be provided with access to a current MSDS. This access must be as close to the work area as reasonably practicable.
- If computers are easily accessible in the work area, then an electronic MSDS database can be used to fulfill this requirement. The electronic database in use at the University will usually be ChemWatch - Chem FFX .
- If computers are not easily accessible in the work area, paper copies of MSDS may be required. If you are using paper copies, be aware that it is easy for them to be misplaced or to fall out of date. It is important to have a management system to review your paper copies regularly for currency and completeness.
MSDS for non-hazardous chemicals
MSDS are not required for non-hazardous chemicals, but such MSDS still contain useful safety information. It is strongly recommended that MSDS for non-hazardous chemicals are retained and consulted regarding safe use, handling, storage and disposal. A copy of an MSDS also provides a method of determining whether a chemical is hazardous if this is unknown, or if this needs to be proven using documentation.
Missing, incomplete or erroneous MSDS
If a MSDS for a chemical classed as hazardous is not available in ChemFFX, refer to: If the MSDS is not in ChemFFX (University network login required).
A chemical classed as a hazardous substance should not be purchased or used if an MSDS is not available,* or if it is apparent that its MSDS contains significant discrepancies or omissions.
* Exception: a MSDS is not required for a chemical that has been manufactured within and will only be used or supplied within the University of Melbourne.