What is one primary purpose of a Safety Data Sheet (SDS)?

A Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is designed primarily to provide detailed information about a specific hazardous material. This includes essential data on the hazards, safe handling practices, and emergency procedures related to the material. The SDS is a critical resource for ensuring workplace safety by informing employees and first responders about the properties and risks associated with the substance, enabling them to take appropriate precautions.

While it might contain sections on emergency contact information and regulatory compliance, those elements serve as supportive information within the broader context of hazard communication. Similarly, while a SDS may mention potential uses of a chemical, its primary focus is on the hazardous characteristics of that material, rather than a comprehensive listing of all possible applications. This specificity in addressing the hazards and safety measures is what distinguishes the purpose of an SDS.