The material safety data sheet (MSDS) is the hazard communication tool that provides details on all important aspects of chemical use, handling, and storage. Review both the appropriate Standard Operating Procedure and the MSDS when working with a chemical for the first time or when training staff. The Office of Environmental Health and Radiation Safety maintains MSDSs for all chemicals used at the University. MSDSs can be obtained by calling 898-4453 or ordered through our website.

The OSHA Hazard Communication standard (29 CFR 1910.1200) requires manufacturers to provide MSDSs at no cost. Information is divided into ten sections.

Section I of the MSDS lists information identifying the manufacturer and the product. It includes:

• manufacturer's name, address and telephone number
• number to call in case of emergency
• chemical name and synonyms
• trade name and synonyms
• chemical family and formula
• Chemical Abstract Service (CAS) number that is a unique identification number for chemical reagents.
• Date of preparation.

Section II describes the various hazardous ingredient(s) contained in the product, the percentages of ingredient(s), and exposure limits when appropriate. This will include all hazardous chemicals that comprise 1% or greater of the mixture will be identified. Carcinogens must be listed if the concentrations are 0.1% or greater.

Section III describes the physical properties of the material. Physical properties include:

• boiling point
• specific gravity
• vapor pressure
• percent volatile
• vapor density
• evaporation rate
• solubility in water
• appearance and odor

Section V describes the known health hazard data for the material and exposure limits. Symptoms or the health effects of an overexposure are listed. This information will help the user and medical personnel recognize if an overexposure has occurred.

• threshold limit value (TLV)
• existing medical conditions that may be aggravated by exposure
• effects of overexposure (e.g., headache, nausea, narcosis, eye irritation, weakness, skin rashes, etc.)
• primary routes of exposure (i.e., inhalation, skin, ingestion)
• cancer or other special health hazards
• emergency and first aid procedures

Section VII gives instructions for the steps to be taken in case of an accidental release or spill. The steps normally include information on containment, evacuation procedures, and waste disposal. The statements on the MSDS are general; more specific information is available from the appropriate Standard Operating Procedure.

Section VIII describes the protective equipment for the individual who might have to work with the substance. This section normally describes worst case conditions; therefore, the extent to which personal protective equipment is required is task dependent. Always review the appropriate Standard Operating Procedure. Equipment may include:

• respiratory equipment
• ventilation
• protective gloves
• eye protection
• other protective equipment (i.e., special clothing).

Section X describes any special precautions or miscellaneous information regarding the material. In some cases, manufacturers may choose to withhold certain information on a MSDS provided the information is trade secret. Regardless of the existence of trade secrets, the MSDS must still contain all relevant hazard, protection, and health information.

Some MSDSs may not contain all ten sections or the information may be in a slightly different order. However, the basic information described above must be provided.

Some MSDSs are more complete than others. Do not assume everything you need to know is contained on the MSDS. Do not assume if a section is left blank that there is no risk.