Safety Data Sheet (SDS)

A Safety Data Sheet (SDS, formerly MSDS) is a structured document that provides comprehensive information about a chemical substance or mixture. Each SDS contains 16 sections covering substance identification, hazard classification, composition, first aid measures, firefighting measures, accidental release measures, handling and storage, exposure controls, physical and chemical properties, stability and reactivity, toxicological information, ecological information, disposal considerations, transport information, regulatory information, and other information. SDS documents are the primary source of chemical compliance data for REACH, RoHS, CLP, GHS, and many other frameworks.

SDS documents are legally required for any hazardous chemical substance or mixture placed on the market. They are the starting point for nearly all chemical compliance activities. REACH substance declarations begin with SDS data identifying substances and their concentrations. SVHC screening uses SDS composition data to identify substances of very high concern. CLP classification, labelling, and packaging compliance is documented in the SDS. Transport of dangerous goods compliance references SDS transport information. For downstream users, SDS documents are the primary source of information about safe handling, exposure controls, and regulatory status. Without accurate SDS data, chemical compliance across multiple frameworks is impossible.

Substance composition data includes chemical identity, CAS numbers, EC numbers, concentration ranges, impurities, and additive information — the raw material data needed for substance declarations and SVHC screening. Hazard classification data includes GHS hazard categories, CLP classification codes, H and P statements, and signal words — supporting labelling, transport safety, and regulatory compliance documentation. Exposure and safety controls data includes occupational exposure limits, engineering controls, personal protective equipment requirements — informing occupational health and safety compliance. Regulatory inventories information includes REACH registration status, TSCA inventory listing, DSL/NDSL status, IECSC, and ENCS listing — key for confirming global regulatory compliance status.

SDS documents are uploaded in PDF or XML format. Sustalium extracts key data fields — CAS numbers, hazard classifications, concentration ranges, exposure limits — and maps them to the relevant compliance frameworks. A single SDS feeds substance declarations under REACH, restricted substance screening under RoHS, classification and labelling under CLP, transport safety documentation for dangerous goods, and exposure control evidence for occupational health compliance. When a supplier submits an updated SDS, Sustalium flags the changes and highlights affected compliance documents that need review. For SDS management at scale, Sustalium provides CAS-number-level tracking across the entire product portfolio.

REACH and UK REACH are the primary users — SDS composition data drives substance registration, notification, and communication obligations. RoHS compliance screening uses SDS data to identify restricted substances in electronics products. CLP and GHS classification and labelling compliance is directly documented through SDS information. Transport of dangerous goods (ADR, IATA, IMDG) requires SDS transport data. Occupational health and safety regulations use SDS exposure control data for workplace safety assessments. The EU Cosmetic Product Safety Report uses SDS data for ingredient safety assessment. The EU Classification, Labelling and Packaging Regulation references SDS data for hazard communication. Food contact material compliance uses SDS substance data for migration testing assessment.

Yes. Under REACH Article 31 and CLP Regulation Article 35, suppliers must provide an SDS for any substance or mixture that meets the criteria for classification as hazardous or contains a PBT, vPvB, or SVHC substance above specified thresholds. The SDS must be provided free of charge, in the official language of the member state where the substance or mixture is placed on the market. SDS requirements exist under GHS implementation in most countries worldwide, including the US (OSHA Hazard Communication Standard), Canada (WHMIS), China, Japan, South Korea, and others. Failure to provide an accurate, current SDS can result in regulatory penalties and supply chain disruptions.