Key takeaways
- Use the 16-section GHS order exactly, and never leave a section blank — state "no data available" instead.
- Sections 2 and 3 (hazards and composition) must agree with the label and the classification.
- Section 14 carries transport classification: UN number, class, packing group, proper shipping name.
- Keep the SDS in the language(s) required by the destination market.
- Revise on any classification, composition or regulatory change and version the sheet.
The 16 sections
| # | Section | Core content |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Identification | Product identifier, recommended use, supplier, emergency phone |
| 2 | Hazard identification | GHS classification, signal word, pictograms, hazard and precautionary statements |
| 3 | Composition | Hazardous components, CAS numbers, concentration ranges |
| 4 | First aid measures | By route of exposure, symptoms, medical attention needed |
| 5 | Firefighting | Suitable media, unsuitable media, hazardous combustion products, protective equipment |
| 6 | Accidental release | Personal precautions, containment, clean-up methods |
| 7 | Handling and storage | Safe handling, incompatibilities, storage conditions |
| 8 | Exposure controls / PPE | Occupational limits, engineering controls, respiratory, skin and eye protection |
| 9 | Physical and chemical properties | Appearance, odour, pH, flash point, viscosity, solubility |
| 10 | Stability and reactivity | Conditions and materials to avoid, hazardous decomposition |
| 11 | Toxicological information | Acute and chronic effects, routes of exposure, available data |
| 12 | Ecological information | Aquatic toxicity, persistence, bioaccumulation, mobility |
| 13 | Disposal considerations | Waste treatment and contaminated packaging |
| 14 | Transport information | UN number, proper shipping name, class, packing group, marine pollutant |
| 15 | Regulatory information | Applicable regulations for the destination market |
| 16 | Other information | Revision date, version, abbreviations, source of data |
Consistency with labels and transport documents
- The signal word, pictograms and hazard statements in section 2 must match the product label exactly.
- Section 14 must match the dangerous goods declaration and the shipping documents.
- Concentration ranges in section 3 must be consistent with the classification in section 2.
- Emergency contact details must be reachable, not a general office number during working hours only.
Where a shipment is classified as dangerous goods, the SDS supports but does not replace the dangerous goods declaration and the carrier's own requirements. Confirm classification with a competent person; a template cannot classify a substance for you.
MSDS or SDS, and language requirements
"MSDS" is the older term; the GHS-aligned document is the SDS with 16 sections. Many buyers still write MSDS in purchase orders and tender documents, and the sheet you supply should be the current 16-section SDS regardless of the term used. Destination markets may require the sheet in the local language alongside English — confirm with the importer and the relevant authority before shipping.
Keeping the chemical document set together
For a chemical product, the technical data sheet states performance, the SDS states hazards, and the certificate of analysis proves the batch. Ship all three with the commercial invoice and packing list, and make sure the product label matches sections 1 and 2 of the SDS.
How to write a safety data sheet
Step 1: Identify the product and supplier
Complete section 1 with identifier, recommended use, supplier and emergency contact.
Step 2: Classify the hazards
Determine the GHS classification and write section 2 with signal word, pictograms and statements.
Step 3: State the composition
List hazardous components with CAS numbers and concentration ranges in section 3.
Step 4: Complete the response sections
Fill first aid, firefighting, accidental release, handling, storage and exposure controls.
Step 5: Add technical and regulatory data
Complete physical properties, stability, toxicology, ecology, disposal, transport and regulatory sections.
Step 6: Version and distribute
Record the revision and date in section 16, then issue with the label and shipping documents.
Frequently asked questions
Is an MSDS the same as an SDS?
In practice they are used interchangeably, but the current standard is the 16-section GHS-aligned SDS. Supply the SDS even when a buyer requests an MSDS.
Who is responsible for the safety data sheet?
The manufacturer, importer or supplier placing the product on the market. Distributors must pass it down the chain and keep it current.
Can a section of the SDS be left blank?
No. Every section must appear in order; where information is unavailable or not applicable, state that explicitly.
How often must an SDS be updated?
Whenever new hazard information, a composition change or a regulatory change affects the content. Record the revision number and date in section 16.