What is the purpose of a material safety data sheet (MSDS)?

The purpose of a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS), now often referred to as a Safety Data Sheet (SDS), is to provide essential safety information and guidelines for handling hazardous substances. This includes details about the physical and chemical properties of a substance, its potential hazards, safe handling, storage practices, and emergency control measures in case of spills or exposure.

The sheet serves as a crucial resource for workers, employers, and emergency responders to ensure safe practices in environments where such substances are used. It helps in understanding the risks associated with chemicals and promotes safer handling and use by giving clear instructions on protective measures.

Other options do not accurately represent the main purpose of an MSDS. For instance, while marketing tools may provide information about a product, an MSDS is focused solely on safety and does not serve as a promotional document. Similarly, legal disclaimers are a part of the broader regulatory context but are not the primary function of an MSDS. Lastly, costs related to fumigation services are unrelated to the intended use of an MSDS, which does not deal with financial aspects.