What does SDS stand for?

The term SDS stands for Safety Data Sheet. This is a critical document used in the workplace and in various industries to provide comprehensive information about a substance or mixture. Safety Data Sheets are vital for ensuring safety and compliance with health and safety regulations, as they contain details such as the properties of the chemical, potential hazards, safe handling and storage practices, emergency response information, and waste disposal guidelines.

The presence of such details empowers employees and employers to understand how to work safely with hazardous materials, which is essential for maintaining a safe working environment. SDSs are an important part of the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS), which standardizes and harmonizes the classification of chemicals to improve safety and communication around hazardous materials.

Understanding what SDS stands for and its role in workplace safety is essential for anyone involved in handling chemicals.