Why They are Important and Where to Find Them
Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) are documents that provide information about the chemical substances you use in the work place. They include physical and health hazards of the chemical, safe handling procedures, personal protective equipment, emergency or first aid procedures and more. Manufacturers and distributors are required to provide MSDS to product users.
Generally speaking, the vast majority of chemical product users on campus can get all the information about a product and how to use it safely directly from the label on the container. However, if anyone wants to know more about a product, we encourage them to review the MSDS.
We keep MSDS on all hazardous chemicals at our facility. They are available to all employees during work hours. While MSDS are designed for employees who work with chemicals, it is sensible and appropriate for any students who must use chemicals as part of their curriculum to also be provided access to this information.
Most departments keep a file or binder of the relevant MSDS for ready reference. In addition, the Supervisor of Environmental Health Programs keeps a campus master file of all chemical substances known to be used on campus. Many departments order new chemical products regularly. The Supervisor of Environmental Health Programs makes every attempt to ensure that MSDS are provided with each new chemical product campus wide.
If your department has a chemical product or substance for which you do not have an MSDS, please contact the Environmental Health Office to obtain one; it will be researched and sent to you as soon as possible.
Reading a Material Safety Data Sheet
When you want to know more about a product, its use or hazards, read the MSDS. Currently state and federal law only require that it list specific information (how the format is designed is up to the manufacturer). Review the section-by-section description of a Material Data Safety Sheets.