How to Learn More About
Your Product Using the SDS (Part 1 of 4)
Answers to frequently asked questions (FAQ) about your chemical products can be found in your product's Safety Data Sheet. In our February 2016 GHS compliant article, we listed the 16 sections of the new GHS compliant Safety Data Sheet. In this article, we will pose some FAQs and show you where they are found in sections 1 through 4.
Q: What is the main use for my product?
Q: Is there some restriction on how I should use this product?
Q: Can my product be diluted?
A: SECTION 1.2 Recommended Use of the Product and Restrictions On Use:
This section states the primary product use, restrictions on how to use the product, and materials it might harm. You will also learn if the product can be diluted.
Q: I am a smoker. Is it safe to use this product while smoking?
A: Section 2.2. Precautionary Statement--Prevention:
If a product is flammable, you will find a precautionary statement that states preventative actions to avoid adverse effects resulting from exposure to the product. Two P-statements (P-phrases) common for flammable hazards are as follows:
P20 Keep away from heat, hot surfaces, sparks, open flames, and other ignition sources. No smoking.
P270 Do not eat, drink, or smoke when using this product.
Q: Some of my employees cannot read. Is there a symbol that shows the hazard to keep them from harming themselves?
A: Section 2.2 GHS Label elements:
This section shows pictures called pictograms that show what can happen with exposure to the product. A table showing these pictograms can also be found on the Emtech Labs website: www.emtechlabs.com in a Breaking News article titled GHS Compliance.
Q: How do I know what hazardous chemicals are in my product?
A: Section 3 Composition/Information On Ingredients:
This section lists all of the ingredients in the product that pose a health, environmental, or other hazard.
Q: Where do I find a list that will tell me what can happen if I am exposed to this product?
A: Section 4.2 Most Important Symptoms and Effects, Both Acute and Delayed.
Conclusion:
We strongly urge you to read all sections of your SDS to have a fuller understanding of how to safely use your product. If you are unsure about using the product after reading the SDS, consult your product distributor for alternate recommendations.
