Introduction to Material Safety Data Sheets

(MSDS)

The more you know about the materials you work with, the more you can protect yourself from their dangers. One way to understand these materials is to read their Material Safety Data Sheets, or MSDSs. These informational sheets tell you about a material's components, it's dangers, and how to work with it safely.

Although your Hazard Communication training provides you a good understanding of the materials with which you work, you should regularly refer to the materials' MSDS in order to completely understand their specific hazards and the necessary preventive measures.  Every hazardous material shipped from a manufacturer must have a MSDS.  For all the materials you work with, an MSDS will be easily accessible to you.  If an MSDS is not available, ask your supervisor where to find it.

MEETING SUGGESTIONS:

Show an actual MSDS and explain the four general  headings:

Product information 

Section 1-3 contain basic product information including manufacturer info, ingredients, exposure limits, hazard warnings and health effects.

Exposure Situations

Sections 4-6 contain first aid information and what do do when fires, spills or leaks occur.

Hazard Prevention and Personal Protection

Sections 7-10 tell you how to prevent accidents through safe handling and storage and how to protect yourself from exposure to the material.

Other Specific Information

Sections 11-16 contain other information including disposal and transportation considerations and regulatory requirements.

Remember MSDS sheets and information may be found online at:  http://www.msdsonline.com 

 Use the username forestry mutual and the password insurance for faster access from the sign on page.