Guide for Reviewing MSDS Completeness
OSHA Instruction CPL 2-2.38A, Office of Health Compliance Assistance
29 CFR 1910.1200(g) Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS)
- Do chemical manufacturers and importers have MSDS for each
hazardous chemical produced or imported?
- Is each MSDS in English?
Does each MSDS contain at least the following information:
- Does MSDS contain the identity used on the label?
- Does each MSDS contain the chemical and common name(s) for
single-substance hazardous chemicals?
- For mixtures tested as a whole:
- Does each MSDS contain the chemical and common name(s) of the
ingredients which contribute to these known hazards?
- Does each MSDS contain the common name(s) of the mixture itself?
- For mixtures not tested as a whole:
- Does each MSDS contain the chemical and common name(s) of all
ingredients which are health hazards (1% or greater), or in the
case of carcinogens (0.1% or greater)?
- Does each MSDS contain the chemical and common name(s) of all
ingredients which have been determined to present a physical hazard
when present in the mixture?
- Does each MSDS contain the physical and chemical characteristics
of the hazardous chemical (vapor pressure, flash point, etc.)?
- Does each MSDS contain the physical hazards of the hazardous
chemical, including he potential for fire, explosion, and reactivity?
- Does each MSDS contain the health hazards of the hazardous
chemical (including signs and symptoms, medical conditions aggravated)?
- Does each MSDS contain the primary routes of entry?
- Does each MSDS contain the OSHA PEL? the ACGIH TLV? other exposure
limit (including ceiling and other short-term limits)?
- Does each MSDS contain information on carcinogen listings (reference
OSHA regulated carcinogens, those indicated in the National Toxicology
Program (NTP) annual report and those listed by the International
Agency for Research on Carcinogens (IARC).
Note: Negative conclusions regarding carcinogenicity or the fact
that there is no information do not have to be reported unless
there is a specific blank for carcinogenicity on the form.
- Does each MSDS contain general applicable procedures and precautions
for safe handling and use of the chemical (hygienic practices,
maintenance and spill procedures)?
- Does each MSDS contain generally applicable control (engineering
controls, work practices, or personal protective equipment)?
- Does each MSDS contain emergency and first aid procedures?
- Does each MSDS contain date of preparation or last change?
- Does each MSDS contain name, address and telephone number
of responsible party?
- Are all sections of the MSDS completed?
Note: This is for use as an aid on inspections. It is NOT a
form.
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