What is the primary purpose of a safety data sheet (SDS)?

The primary purpose of a safety data sheet (SDS) is to provide critical information about hazardous substances, including their properties, health effects, safe handling practices, and emergency procedures. An SDS serves as an essential resource for workers and emergency responders, ensuring they have access to vital information that allows them to understand the dangers associated with materials they may encounter. It covers aspects such as physical and chemical properties, recommended storage and handling procedures, personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements, and what to do in case of an emergency.

This comprehensive information helps to enhance safety in the workplace and ensure regulatory compliance. While other options may have some relevance, they do not encapsulate the primary function of an SDS, which is fundamentally about educating personnel on the safe use of hazardous materials and mitigating risks associated with them.