Who should use safety data sheets
If you’re a person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU) with hazardous chemicals at your workplace, an SDS helps you keep your workers safe.
The information in an SDS is general. You may need to work out what applies to your workplace.
Where to get safety data sheets
Hazardous chemical manufacturers and importers make SDS. You can get an SDS from:
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the manufacturer’s website
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the manufacturer, supplier or importer, if you ask for one.
You will get an SDS:
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when you’re first supplied with the hazardous chemical
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the first time you’re supplied with a chemical after an SDS has changed.
Manufacturers and importers of hazardous chemicals must check the SDS at least every 5 years.
Understanding safety data sheets for hazardous chemicals
The SDS has certain information under the Work Health and Safety (WHS) Regulations.
The Understanding safety data sheets for hazardous chemicals fact sheet helps you work out what each section in an SDS means.
Keeping copies of safety data sheets
You must keep copies of SDS for chemicals you use in your hazardous chemical register.
Make SDS easy to access for:
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all workers who use, handle and store the chemical at the workplace
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emergency service workers
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anyone else who may be exposed to the chemical.
Exceptions are when:
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the hazardous chemicals are in transit
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your business is a retailer intending to supply a hazardous chemical as a consumer product and not open the chemical on the premises
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the hazardous chemical is a consumer product used in quantities and a manner consistent with household use.
You may still offer an SDS in these circumstances as part of your duty to ensure the health and safety of workers.