How to Read An MSDS

MSDS’s do not have to follow any specific format or design, but they all have to provide the same kinds of information. There are two basic formats, OSHA and ANSI (American National Standards Institute). OSHA’s recommended format is most widely used.

The MSDS will first tell you the identity of the chemical. This will include the product name and the common name of the material. The identity must be stated exactly the same as on the label.

Each MSDS must provide the following information (OSHA format listed here by section):

Section 1-Supplier’s Information

• The name, address, and phone number of the company that makes the chemical.
• The date the MSDS was prepared.

Section 2-Hazardous Ingredients/Identity Information

• Hazardous components of the chemical, including mixtures, by their scientific and common names.
• Safe exposure limits for workers will include OSHA’s Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL). The American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists’ Threshold Limit Value (TLV) is another common limit listed.

The only time the exact chemical components will not be listed is if the chemical is a manufacturer’s “trade secret.” The exposure limits and other safety information still have to be provided. Trade secret identities must be given out in certain circumstances.

Section 3-Physical/Chemical Characteristics

• Boiling point and melting point.
• Vapor pressure, vapor density, and evaporation rate.
• Solubility in water and specific gravity.

The information in this section may look very scientific but it is actually very basic. It tells you what conditions will change the chemical’s form, thereby affecting the type and degree of the chemical’s hazard.

Section 4-Fire and Explosion Hazard Data

• The chemical’s flash point.
• Flammable or explosion limits.

This section also tells you what to use to put out a fire started by the chemical and any special hazards or firefighting procedures to you need to be aware of.

Section 5-Reactivity Data

• Contains information about what could happen if the chemical is mixed with air, water, or other chemicals.
• Explains what conditions and chemicals to avoid.

Section 6-Health Hazard Data

• Provides information on how the chemical can get into your body (inhalation, absorption, and/or ingestion).
• Explains the health hazards that could result from exposure.
• Provides symptoms of exposure.
• Gives emergency and first aid procedures to follow for an accidental exposure to the chemical.

Section 7-Precautions for Safe Handling and Use

• Instructions for the correct way to handle, store, and dispose of the chemical.
• Information on what to do if the chemical spills, leaks, or is released into the air.

Section 8-Control Measures

• Lists personal protective equipment to use when working with the chemical.
• Provides ventilation requirements for working with the chemical.
• Hygiene practices to prevent accidental exposure.

IMPORTANT: If you have any questions about how to read a MSDS or about information contained in a MSDS, ask your immediate supervisor or contact the University’s Safety Inspector.

Return to MSDS Home Page