Safety Data Sheet SDS

A Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is the standardized 16-section document that accompanies every chemical product sold for commercial use. The format is set by OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard (29 CFR 1910.1200), which adopted the United Nations Globally Harmonized System (GHS) format in 2012. Every SDS in the U.S. has the same 16 sections in the same order, regardless of which manufacturer issued it.

The sections that matter most in the field:

• Section 2 — Hazard Identification. GHS pictograms, signal word (Danger or Warning), hazard statements, precautionary statements.
• Section 4 — First Aid Measures. What to do if it gets in eyes, on skin, inhaled, or ingested.
• Section 7 — Handling and Storage. Working PPE, ventilation, temperature limits, incompatible materials.
• Section 8 — Exposure Controls / PPE. Specific PPE requirements (gloves, eyewear, respirator) and exposure limits.
• Section 9 — Physical and Chemical Properties. pH, flash point, density — the data that informs dilution math and mixing decisions.
• Section 10 — Stability and Reactivity. What it shouldn’t be mixed with (e.g., hypochlorite plus ammonia → chloramine gas).

OSHA requires two things from the employer: (1) maintain an SDS for every hazardous chemical used in the workplace, and (2) make those SDSs accessible to workers during their shift — “accessible” meaning the worker can physically reach them without manager permission and without leaving the area. Historically this meant a binder in the truck or on the wall. Most contractors now keep them digitally.

CCSD keeps SDSs for every product the crew might use during a shift on the truck (binder + tablet backup), and a master archive at the shop. On contract jobs that require an “SDS book” deliverable for the facility’s Hazcom program, we provide the relevant SDSs as part of the project closeout package.