What is an MSDS and why do we need it?

Every chemical supplied has a data sheet attributed to it (also known as: safety data sheet, SDS/material safety data sheet (MSDS).

• Different suppliers will put their logos on, but they will all have the same data:

• These are required by law, and you may have to show them in an Ofsted or health and safety inspection.

• It is not intended for these to go into the student laboratory with the chemicals, more that they are a reference point for the technician or teacher.

• Historically these data sheets would have been sent with the chemicals, and some companies still do this, however, it is becoming more common to find them on the website of the company you ordered the chemical from, in a downloadable format. This means that the data sheet can be updated when necessary (e.g., if regulations change) and you always have the most up to date sheet to hand.