Outcome of ExESS

A Safety Data Sheet is an important document to communicate substance/preparation information through the supply chain. Document consists of a specific number of headings with content defined in the legislation. It is a document that provides product users and emergency personnel with information and procedures needed for handling and working with chemicals. They generally outline the physical and chemical properties of the product, describe potential hazards associated with the substance, prescribe emergency actions, and often include manufacturer identification, address, SDS date, and emergency phone numbers.

1. A change in formulation which:
   • Affects the hazardous properties of the substance.
   • Alters the form, appearance or mode of application of the substance.
2. A change to the hazardous substance which alters its health and safety hazard.
3. New health and/or safety information on the hazardous substance such as exposure standard changes or a substance previously considered not harmful is now established to be harmful (e.g. carcinogenic)
4. At least every five years.

Safety Data Sheets are one of the key tools in hazard communication. A good Safety Data Sheet provides the user with the information he needs to carry out a suitable risk assessment for his application. One of the key aims of the Chemical Hazards Communication Society is to promote better Safety Data Sheets.