COS/Controls/TBT-COS-009
Reading and Understanding Safety Data Sheets
COSHH & Hazardous Substances › Controls › Reading and Understanding Safety Data Sheets
Toolbox Talk
Reading and Understanding Safety Data Sheets
A safety data sheet provides essential information about the hazards, safe handling procedures, storage requirements, and emergency measures for a chemical product. Under COSHH, employers must obtain and review the SDS for every hazardous substance used on site. Every worker who handles chemicals must understand how to read and apply the information in the SDS. The 16-section format is standardised internationally, making it consistent across all products and suppliers.
Key Hazards
Chemical exposure from not understanding the hazards described in the safety data sheet
Incorrect PPE selection because the recommended protection was not read from the SDS
Improper storage leading to chemical reactions, fires, or environmental contamination
Delayed first aid because the correct emergency treatment was not known from the SDS
Control Measures
- Obtain and read the safety data sheet for every chemical product before you use it on site.
- Check Section 2 (Hazard Identification) to understand the dangers and hazard pictograms.
- Check Section 4 (First Aid Measures) so you know the correct response for each exposure route.
- Check Section 7 (Handling and Storage) for safe use instructions and incompatible materials.
- Check Section 8 (Exposure Controls and PPE) to identify the correct protective equipment required.
- Ensure SDSs are available at the point of use and accessible to all workers handling the product.
- Report any product that does not have an SDS available and do not use it until one is obtained.
- Use the SDS information to complete or review the COSHH assessment for the task.
- Keep SDSs for all substances in a central file that is maintained and updated regularly.
Remember
- A safety data sheet must be available for every hazardous substance used on site.
- Section 8 tells you exactly what PPE to wear — read it before handling any chemical product.
- Section 4 contains the first aid information you need in an emergency — know it before you start.
- The 16-section format is the same for all products so once you know the layout, you can find information quickly.
- Never use a chemical product that does not have a safety data sheet available on site.
- The SDS is the starting point for the COSHH assessment and must be reviewed for every substance.
Applicable Legislation: Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH) · REACH Regulation · CLP Regulation · Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
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