Are you worried about using proper safety protocols in your workplace? Do you know exactly how to create an SDS?
SDS documents are one of the most important factors you need to consider when creating good safety practices in your business. Not only will they help keep you and your employees safe, but they will also help you avoid legal issues. Mishandling your SDS documents can lead to regulatory misconduct charges, as well as lawsuits.
Luckily, SDS softwares are available to make the job of managing your documents a lot more effectively.
In this article, we will take you through exactly how SDS software can help you create, store, and manage your documents.
What Is an SDS?
SDS stands for safety data sheet. It is an internationally standardized form that needs to accompany hazardous materials when they are being moved from one place to another.
The SDS replaces the old MSDS protocol. The MSDS protocol was much looser and different types of documents could be used to accompany hazardous materials.
The SDS was created by the United Nations’ Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS). This means that any international shipments of hazardous material need to conform to SDS standards.
But, also, OSHA (Occupational Health and Safety Administration) has adopted the SDS as its standard form.
The SDS form is made up of 16 different sections. The sections include information such as:
• The chemical elements of the material
• The specific hazards associated with it
• Any safety precautions that need to be taken with it
• Advice on transporting and handling the material
• Toxicology information
Even if a particular hazardous material does not require certain precautions, all sections of the SDS need to be completed.
The Benefits of SDS Software
SDS software for businesses can help create and keep track of documentation and information about specific hazardous materials. There are a number of particular benefits of using SDS management software, so let’s go through them one by one.
Easy SDS Creation
SDS softwares are primarily useful because they provide templates for creating the documents themselves. This can speed up the process of filling out paperwork, improving business efficiency.
Efficient SDS Management
It is important that you maintain all SDS files, even when you are no longer in possession of the hazardous materials. This can help you stay protected from legal issues. It is also useful when you are auditing.
Access to SDS Databases
A good SDS software will include access to databases where you can find other SDS documents. This can make creating SDS documents a lot simpler. All you have to do is find an SDS document for the particular material you are moving.
But, if you do this, it is important to crosscheck the information (chemical properties, safety precautions, etc.) from other sources. Refer to a number of different SDS documents as well as non-database resources.
If you create an improper SDS form, it will not be a sufficient defense to say that it matches the information on a database document. You are always responsible for the contents of your documentation.
Chemical Inventory
You should also have access to information on the specific chemicals used in your hazardous materials. Most hazardous materials used by businesses are mixtures of different chemical compounds.
Good SDS software will give you detailed information about each chemical component. This will include known reactions with other chemicals. All of this information is required when filling out the SDS documentation.
Workplace Safety
At the end of the day, the most important feature of SDS documentation is its ability to facilitate good workplace practices. By having all of your documentation on file, your workers can always quickly inform themselves about precautions they need to take.
Proper SDS documentation will include information on necessary equipment to be used (i.e. gloves, glasses, etc.), as well as any precautions that need to be taken in handling or moving the hazardous material.
Mobile Access
Your business efficiency will suffer if you don’t have ready access to all of your documentation. SDS software should give you access to a mobile interface where you can review all relevant information.
This is important if you are out on the factory floor or on the road with a hazardous material transport. If you can quickly access information via a tablet or phone, it will speed up your processes and improve business performance.
Emergency Response
Hopefully, you never experience any hazardous material emergency situations. But, if you do, it is essential that you can quickly access your SDS documentation.
Your SDS should tell you exactly how to respond in the event that hazardous materials have touched exposed skin or been ingested. If emergency services need to be called, you can quickly inform them of any relevant information.
Ultimately, an SDS document can save lives and prevent lifelong injuries. Not only is this important for the health and safety of your workers. It is also important for your own legal protection.
Once again, good SDS software will not only store this information but also allow you quick and easy access to it when it is needed in an emergency.
SDS Software is a Simple Solution to Many Problems
SDS softwares have a range of benefits for legal insurances, workplace safety, and business efficiency. You may think that investing in SDS software is an expense you cannot afford. However, the time that you will save by speeding up your processes should already pay for the software.
More importantly, though, SDS software provides you with insurance when issues arise with hazardous materials. It is going to cost you and your business a lot more if you have emergencies or legal disputes and you do not have good documentation on hand.
So, don’t risk it! Invest in some good SDS software to protect yourself, and experience all of the other benefits at the same time.
If you have found this information useful, why not check out some of our other articles on improving business practices? You can always find ways to save money and improve performance in your workplace!
