While all companies should periodically review, revise, and update their safety data sheet database, most don’t – that is, until a workplace incident is documented and OSHA takes the time to also review their HazCom paperwork. But by then, it’s too late. Safety data sheet information is essential for companies. Safety data sheets matter because they provide essential information on handling, storing, and responding to hazardous materials, ensuring safety and compliance in the workplace.
Changes should, of course, be made to SDS databases as necessary as new hazard information is found, new information about protective measures is ascertained, or changes are made to product information, such as composition or use.
And while OSHA’s hazard communication standard doesn’t clearly define what significant information is, it’s generally assumed that it includes the change of classification, new hazards, new occupational exposure limits, and new risk management measures.
Maintaining an updated SDS database isn’t necessarily difficult, yet many companies struggle with compliance, with HazCom violations ranking No. 2 on OSHA’s list of the most cited violations.
Learn the 6 Steps to Maintaining Safety Data Sheets (SDS) >
HazCom Requirements: Purpose of Safety Data Sheets
The HazCom standard requires employers with workers exposed to hazardous chemicals to:
- Maintain a written HazCom plan
- Have a written list of the chemicals present in the facility
- Properly label chemicals in the workplace
- Maintain safety data sheets and make them available to employees
- Train workers on the standard and the specific chemical hazards to which they are exposed
- All these steps can feel like a real headache for many employers
The Hazard Communication (HazCom) Standard requires employers to provide information about hazardous chemicals through labels, safety data sheets (SDS), and employee training to ensure safe handling and emergency preparedness. SDSs are important because they offer detailed information about the chemical’s properties, hazards, safe handling practices, and emergency measures, which helps prevent accidents and ensures proper response in case of exposure.
Tips to Keep Your SDS Database Compliant
And since compliance is expected to remain on OSHA’s radar with HazCom violations consistently ranking at the top of its list every fiscal year, it recommends that employers implement an effective hazard communication program by following these six steps:
- Regular Updates: Ensure SDS are current and updated according to regulatory changes and manufacturer revisions.
- Organized Storage: Maintain a well-organized system for easy access, categorization, and retrieval of SDS.
- Employee Training: Regularly train employees on how to access and interpret SDS effectively.
- Compliance Checks: Regularly audit your SDS database to verify compliance with local, national, and international regulations.
- Centralized Access: Use a centralized, digital SDS management system to streamline updates and access.
- Record-Keeping: Maintain records of all SDS requests, updates, and training sessions for auditing purposes.
- Cross-Reference: Ensure SDS are cross-referenced with inventory to reflect all chemicals in use.
- Emergency Preparedness: Make sure SDS are easily accessible in case of emergencies, both physically and digitally.
- Legal Requirements: Stay informed about changes in hazardous communication regulations and adjust your database accordingly.
- Feedback Loop: Implement a system for receiving feedback from employees to address any issues with SDS accessibility or clarity.
A Compliance Partner That Works For You
TotalSDS can ensure compliance for companies by offering a comprehensive database of safety data sheets, helping to maintain up-to-date and accurate SDS for all chemicals used, streamlining the process of obtaining and managing SDS, and providing tools for tracking and reporting compliance with regulatory requirements.
As your compliance partner, you can rest assured knowing that we are making compliance a top priority so you can focus on your business. Schedule a free demo to see how TotalSDS can help you today!
