Understanding the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS)
The Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) provides essential information regarding the safe handling of chemical substances. An MSDS is organized into a total of 16 main sections, covering the hazards and risks of a chemical substance, the names and concentrations of its components, first-aid procedures, and handling and storage methods.
Legal Requirements for the MSDS
Occupational Safety and Health Act
Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act, manufacturers, importers, and sellers must prepare and provide an MSDS whenever they supply a chemical substance. This is specified in Articles 110 and 111 of the Act and is an important measure for ensuring the safety of chemical substances.
Obligations of the Workplace
Workplaces are likewise required to post and keep the MSDS in a location where workers can easily view it. This is based on Article 114 of the Act, and worker training can be used to strengthen safety in the handling of chemical substances.
Components of the MSDS
An MSDS is organized into a total of 16 sections, each providing the information necessary to ensure the safe use of a chemical substance. The main sections are as follows:
- Product and Company Identification: Product name and manufacturer information
- Hazard Overview: Hazards and risk factors of the substance
- Composition Information: Chemical components and their concentrations
- First-Aid Procedures: First-aid methods in the event of an accident
- Handling and Storage: Safe handling and storage methods
Differences Between MSDS and SDS
Recently, the MSDS has been trending toward replacement by the SDS (Safety Data Sheet). However, in Korea, submission of an MSDS is still required by law. The SDS is an internationally standardized format that presents information more clearly.
Use of and Responsibility for the MSDS
The MSDS provides information on 20,568 chemical substances through the search service offered by the Korea Occupational Safety and Health Agency (KOSHA). However, this is for reference only, and legal responsibility rests with manufacturers and importers. As of January 16, 2021, an MSDS must be submitted to KOSHA and assigned an approval number before any manufacturing or importing takes place.
FAQ
What is an MSDS?
An MSDS is a document that provides information on the hazards and safety of a chemical substance, and its provision is required by law.
Where should an MSDS be kept?
Workplaces must post and keep the MSDS in a location where workers can easily view it.
When should an MSDS be prepared?
It must be prepared and provided when manufacturing, importing, or selling a chemical substance.
How does an MSDS differ from an SDS?
An SDS is an internationally standardized format that presents information more clearly, while the MSDS remains a legal requirement in Korea.
Where can I check MSDS information?
You can check MSDS information for 20,568 chemical substances through the search service provided by the Korea Occupational Safety and Health Agency (KOSHA).
Conclusion
The Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) provides essential information regarding the safe use of chemical substances. It helps improve safety on the industrial floor and enables workers to handle chemical substances safely. Because the MSDS is a legally required document, companies must prepare and provide it accurately.