How to properly manage SDSs: the 7-step workflow
Get a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) and put it on file. Done your homework?
Unfortunately, no.
Proper management of Safety Data Sheets is a critical process for safety, health and compliance of the company.
Here is a simple outline showing how to deal with it correctly:7-step workflow--to be followed every time you receive a new SDS.
SDS management workflow in 7 steps
1 - SDS Reception.
A new SDS comes to the company (email, supplier, portal...).
2 - Initial verification
Is it a new product?
- Yes → Archive and send for evaluation
- No → Go to version comparison
3 - Version control
- Retrieve previous version
- Compare changes (classifications, H-statements, P-statements, PPE, etc.).
4 - Approval Cycle
Send for approval to:
- H&S
- Competent physician
- External consultants
- ...
5 - Update archive
- Replace previous version
- Update the archive with the new SDS
- Update the chemical registry
6 - Internal communication
Make the updated SDS available at:
- Users in the department
- Warehouse
- Security officers
- ...
7 - Traceability & Compliance
- Preserve previous versions
- Track approvals
- Verify regulatory compliance (REACH, CLP, ...)
Every improperly managed SDS is a hidden risk
With an automated process and proper digital tools, risk is reduced and compliance management becomes simple.
