Safety Data Sheet User Survey Shows Long Held Habits Hard to Change

Written By: Atanu Das on Sunday, March 10, 2019

The survey conducted in December 2018, asked 137 members of the ACS Division of Chemical Health and Safety 12 questions ranging from the estimated number of chemicals in use at their sites to how well the SDS program is meeting OSHA's intended purpose in effective hazard communication. 

Most notably, in response to a question on where SDSs were available on site, breakdown was as follows: 

While over 80% of users access SDSs via online systems, nearly 50% still use physical binders located at the work area. It is obvious having more immediate access without the need for using a computer has benefits, but a major drawback to paper based systems requires a disciplined approach to maintain current SDSs on a regular basis. In fact, most OSHA violations of the hazard communication standard find outdated or missing SDSs topping the list of non-compliance.

Are you maintaining systems with large numbers of Safety Data Sheets at risk of being quickly outdated? Take a look around your worksite and review your hazard communication program on a regular schedule. We can help.