Why are SDS so Important?

Everybody loves those quartz countertops in their kitchens and bathrooms. Did you know there are some health concerns during manufacturing for this? We hear about chemicals and their impact to the environment and people’s health. Not just in homes but also in the workplace. In history there is scientific evidence that points to many chemicals that causes many health concerns. For example, breathing large amounts of asbestos can induce chronic lung disease, exposure to ethylbenzene can cause cancer, and now in the news we are hearing that quartz counter tops can lead to silicosis when exposed to the dust during the manufacturing process. Quartz counter tops are becoming the latest trend for home renovations. They are used in kitchens and bathrooms and pose many benefits such as stain resistance, are non-porous material which prevents build-up of bacterial contamination, and can increase the value of your home. It is no wonder why people may prefer these types of counter tops. But should this come at a price where it would cost someone their health? Obviously not!

Knowing the dangers in the workplace allow for a healthy work environment. One of the best ways to protect yourself in the workplace is to have safety data sheets available. Safety data sheets or SDS as most people call them offer occupational health and safety information that helps explain the dangers associated with a chemical or a chemical product. It is designed to list physical attributes, such as flash points, hazard, and precautionary statements, may offer health and safety related information about conditions when using the product, and much more. When SDS are used correctly they minimize the risk associated with that product or chemical. This is done by ensuring workers are aware of the potential hazards associated with the chemicals and provide information on the proper PPE that may be needed. They provide information for first responders. They provide information on how to handle waste disposal. They also provide information on proper storage techniques related to the chemical or product.

So why are SDS so important? They protect you. According to statistics every year, more than 1 billion workers are exposed to hazardous substances in the working environment. Statistics also show that approximately 190,000 illnesses and 50,000 deaths occur to workers annually. They fall victim to fatal diseases, cancers, poisonings or from fatal injuries from fires or explosions. SDS ensure that you are using the chemical or product safely in way that will not bring harm to you or anyone else. They also ensure that the product is being used safely to prevent any physical damage to the workplace or to the environment. A properly designed SDS can also help prepare employees in the workplace. For example, knowing if a product is flammable is valuable knowledge especially when transferring flammable liquids to prevent fires, flashbacks, or explosions. Another example is when dealing with spills, knowing if something is acidic or basic can determine which absorbent to use. Understanding these hazards allows employees to create procedures and know what personal protective equipment to use when handling any product.

ICC Compliance Center has a team of full-time Regulatory Experts who have years of experience and are certified/recognized in their field of expertise. Contact us about authoring, reformatting, updating, and translating your SDSs. Ask us your tough questions by calling 888.442.9628 (USA) or 888.977.4834 (Canada).