🧪 How to Read a Safety Data Sheet (SDS): A Practical Guide for Businesses

When you purchase cleaning chemicals, especially in bulk, you’re not just buying a product - you’re taking on a responsibility. That’s why every chemical sold by Astral Hygiene comes with a Safety Data Sheet (SDS): A legally required document that helps you understand how to store, handle, and use the product safely.

But let’s be honest - SDSs can look intimidating. So here’s a breakdown of the most important sections, with real-world context to help you make sense of it all.

📄 What Is an SDS?

An SDS is a 16-section document required by law under the REACH Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006. It provides comprehensive safety information about a chemical product - from its ingredients to emergency procedures.

Think of it as your chemical’s instruction manual, risk assessment, and emergency guide all rolled into one.

🔍 Key Sections Explained

1. Identification

• What it tells you: The product name, supplier contact details, and emergency phone numbers.

• Why it matters: If there’s an incident, you need to know who to call and what product you’re dealing with. This section also confirms the intended use - for example, “surface disinfectant for food prep areas.”

2. Hazards Identification

• What it tells you: Whether the product is flammable, corrosive, toxic, or environmentally hazardous.

• Look for:

  • Signal words: “Danger” indicates a higher level of risk than “Warning.”

  • Hazard pictograms: Red diamond symbols like the flame 🔥, skull ☠️, or exclamation mark ❗.

• Why it matters: Helps you assess risk and determine what PPE (personal protective equipment) is needed.

3. Composition/Ingredients

• What it tells you: The chemical makeup of the product, including active ingredients and their concentrations.

• Why it matters: Useful for checking compatibility with your workplace, especially if you have sensitive environments like food production or healthcare.

4. First Aid Measures

• What it tells you: What to do if someone inhales, ingests, or comes into contact with the chemical.

• Why it matters: Quick access to this info can prevent serious harm. For example, some disinfectants require rinsing with water for 15 minutes if they contact skin.

5. Fire-Fighting Measures

• What it tells you: Suitable extinguishing methods and any special hazards during combustion.

• Why it matters: Some chemicals release toxic fumes when burned - knowing this helps fire marshals and emergency responders.

6. Accidental Release Measures

• What it tells you: How to clean up spills safely and prevent environmental damage.

• Why it matters: If a drum leaks in your storeroom, this section tells you whether to ventilate, evacuate, or use absorbent materials.

7. Handling and Storage

• What it tells you: Conditions for safe handling, including temperature, ventilation, and container compatibility.

• Why it matters: Improper storage can degrade the product or create hazards. For instance, some disinfectants must be kept away from direct sunlight or heat sources.

8. Exposure Controls / PPE

• What it tells you: Workplace exposure limits and recommended protective gear.

• Why it matters: Ensures your staff are protected. If the SDS recommends nitrile gloves and splash goggles, don’t substitute with latex and safety glasses.

9. Physical and Chemical Properties

• What it tells you: Appearance, odour, pH level, boiling point, etc.

• Why it matters: Helps you identify the product and understand how it behaves. For example, a low pH might indicate corrosiveness.

10-16. Stability, Toxicology, Disposal & Transport

• What it tells you:

  • Whether the product reacts with other chemicals.

  • Long-term health effects.

  • How to dispose of it safely.

  • Transport classifications (e.g., flammable liquids).

• Why it matters: These sections are vital for bulk buyers, logistics teams, and anyone managing chemical waste.

🧤 Why This Matters for Your Business

• Legal Compliance: SDSs are required under COSHH regulations. Not having them accessible can result in fines.

• Risk Management: Prevent accidents, protect staff, and reduce liability.

• Training: Use SDSs to educate your team on safe handling and emergency response.

• Storage Planning: Know which chemicals can be stored together - and which combinations are dangerous.

✅ Astral Hygiene Tip

When you receive a new product:

• Print the SDS and store it in your COSHH folder.

• Train your staff on key sections relevant to their role.

• Review storage instructions before placing it in your storeroom.

Need help building a COSHH folder or training your team? Astral Hygiene is here to support you - just reach out.