Sections of a Safety Data Sheet

Need multiple seats for your university or lab? Get a quote
The page below is a sample from the LabCE course OSHA Hazard Communication and Chemical Hygiene. Access the complete course and earn ASCLS P.A.C.E.-approved continuing education credits by subscribing online.

Learn more about OSHA Hazard Communication and Chemical Hygiene (online CE course)
Sections of a Safety Data Sheet

The intent of the SDS is to answer these questions:
  • What is the material?
  • What information needs to be known immediately?
  • What should be done in cases of emergency situations?
  • How can hazardous situations be prevented from occurring?
  • What other useful information is there on this material?
SDSs supplied by chemical manufacturers are in a uniform format that includes 16 specific sections. The SDS will include the section numbers, the headings, and associated information under each heading. The 16-section headings are:
  1. Identification
  2. Hazard identification
  3. Composition/information on ingredients
  4. First-aid measures
  5. Fire-fighting measures
  6. Accidental release measures
  7. Handling and storage
  8. Exposure controls/personal protection
  9. Physical and chemical properties
  10. Stability and reactivity
  11. Toxicological information
  12. Ecological information
  13. Disposal considerations
  14. Transport information
  15. Regulatory information
  16. Other information (includes the date of preparation or last revision)