The Three Ways SDS Sheets Keep You Safe

Safety Data Sheets (SDS) are an invaluable part of keeping your workplace safe. WHMIS regulations insist upon all workplaces having SDS sheets. There are three key ways SDS sheets keep you safe in the workplace each day.

1. Firstly, SDS sheets keep you safe through their sheer level of detail. The information present allows you to fully understand the nature of the hazard with which you are dealing. SDS sheets make employees aware of the materials they are handling and what to do when an accident occurs. There is more information on an SDS sheet than a WHMIS label. SDS sheets have a standard of 16 sections outlining the nature of the hazardous material. Furthermore, the sheet also tells you what to do in case of an accident.
2. Another way you are kept safe is down to the source of the SDS sheets. The manufacturer, distributor, or importer of the hazardous material in question provides the information contained on the SDS sheet. The information you get is straight from the source. As a result, there will be no room for ambiguity or error.
3. Finally, another way SDS sheets keep you safe is through sheer ease of availability. SDS sheets must be available in a workplace on paper or as an electronic file on a computer. Each work environment readily contains the documentation you need to be educated and alert.

Ultimately, with SDS sheets as part of WHMIS workplace requirements, you are kept safe on the job. With SDS sheets readily available and offering in-depth knowledge from an authority on the hazardous material, you will know every precaution you need to take.

SDS: What You Need to Know

If your workplace handles hazardous products in Canada, you need a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for each one. Under WHMIS (Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System), any product classified as hazardous must have an SDS to ensure safe handling, storage, and emergency response.

Do You Need an SDS?

If a product meets the hazard classification criteria under the Hazardous Products Act, it requires an SDS. Employers producing hazardous products for their own use must also create an SDS. The SDS must be available in both English and French, either as one bilingual document or two separate ones provided simultaneously.

What Information Is on an SDS?

• The Hazardous Products Regulations (HPR) outline standardized sections, including:
• Identification – Product name, supplier details, emergency contact.
• Hazard Identification – Classification, symbols, signal words, precautionary statements.
• Composition – Ingredients, concentrations, and chemical identifiers.
• First-Aid Measures – Immediate response for exposure (inhalation, skin contact, etc.).
• Fire-Fighting Measures – Suitable extinguishing methods and hazards.
• Accidental Release Measures – Containment and cleanup procedures.
• Handling & Storage – Safe practices and storage conditions.
• Exposure Controls/PPE – Recommended protective equipment.
• Physical & Chemical Properties – State, odor, flammability, etc.
• Stability & Reactivity – Conditions to avoid (heat, shock, incompatible materials).
• Toxicological Information – Health effects, exposure routes.
• Ecological, Disposal, Transport, & Regulatory Info (optional in Canada).
• Other Information – Revision date.

How Are SDSs Provided?

Suppliers must deliver SDSs in hard copy or electronically (e.g., email attachment, USB). Simply providing a website link is not compliant.

When Must an SDS Be Updated?

An SDS must be updated within 90 days if new hazard data changes its classification or safety measures. Unlike the old WHMIS 1988 rules, 3-year updates are no longer mandatory, but employers must ensure SDSs remain accurate. Jurisdictions like Alberta, Ontario, and Quebec require updates within 90 days of new data. Others (e.g., BC, Federal workplaces) mandate checking for updates every 3 years.

Employer Responsibilities

• Ensure up-to-date SDSs are available for all hazardous products.
• Make SDSs accessible to workers (digitally or physically).
• Update SDSs if new hazard information is discovered.

Why Are SDSs Hard to Understand?

SDSs serve multiple audiences: workers, safety professionals, doctors, emergency responders. Therefore, some sections may be technical. If you’re unsure, consult your supervisor, safety committee, or WHMIS-trained personnel.

Do SDSs Have All the Information You Need?

Not always. Some details may be too general. For workplace-specific safety procedures, consult your employer or safety team.