Safety Data Sheets (SDS)

The California State University utilizes Risk and Safety Solutions (RSS) for chemical and hazardous material management and for the provision of Safety Data Sheets (SDS). Cal-OSHA allows this online system to replace our paper SDS files as long as hazardous materials users have access to a computer with the link to RSS in the immediate vicinity of the hazmat use and users are notified as to where they can find the SDS. EHS can provide informational labels with QR code access to RSS.  Email [email protected] to obtain SDS labels.

Safety data sheets (SDS) provide detailed information about a chemical substance or mixture. The main purpose of an SDS is to ensure safe handling, use, storage, and disposal of chemicals. SDSs are used to communicate hazards and safety precautions. All chemicals used on campus require an SDS, including those used in instruction and research.

Uploading SDS to RSS

All employees purchasing or managing chemicals and hazardous substances are required to obtain and upload Safety Data Sheets (SDS) to RSS. Detailed instructions on uploading forms can be found here.

When is an SDS needed?

An SDS needs to be obtained and uploaded if the material meets any of the following requirements:

• All hazardous chemicals stored or used on campus, including in instruction settings or otherwise by students:
  • Flammables (gasoline, alcohols, solvents, propane, etc.)
  • Corrosives (acids, bases, bleach, ammonia)
  • Toxics (pesticides, lab reagents, cleaning chemicals)
  • Gases under pressure (oxygen, CO₂, acetylene, nitrogen, propane, etc.)
  • Mixtures/products containing hazardous ingredients (paints, adhesives, fuels, cleaners).
  • Byproducts created during work (e.g., welding fumes, silica dust from cutting concrete).
  • Consumer products (like Windex, Lysol, bleach, aerosol sprays) IF used more often or in greater amounts than a normal household would use.

An SDS is not required in the following instances:

• Consumer products used occasionally and in the same way as at home.
• Food, beverages, drugs, cosmetics, or alcohol intended for personal use.
• Wood or wood products (if untreated and not producing hazardous dusts).
• Solid articles that don’t release chemicals under normal use (nails, glass, bricks).

 SDS Content

SDS will generally include the following important information:

• Identification: Product name, manufacturer, recommended uses, and contact information.
• Hazard(s) Identification: Classification of the chemical and label elements (like hazard symbols).
• Composition/Information on Ingredients: Chemical ingredients and concentration.
• First-Aid Measures: What to do in case of exposure (inhalation, ingestion, skin/eye contact).
• Fire-Fighting Measures: Suitable extinguishing methods and fire hazards.
• Accidental Release Measures: How to safely handle spills or leaks.
• Handling and Storage: Safe practices for storing and handling the chemical.
• Exposure Controls/Personal Protection: Recommended personal protective equipment (PPE) and exposure limits.
• Physical and Chemical Properties: Appearance, smell, boiling point, etc.
• Stability and Reactivity: Chemical stability and potential reactions.
• Toxicological Information: Health effects and symptoms of exposure.

And more — SDSs usually have 16 standardized sections. They are required by law (such as OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard in the U.S.) for any workplace using hazardous chemicals.  This information sheet from Cal/OSHA outlines each section in detail and provides additional information about how to use SDS.

If you're working with chemicals, always read the SDS first to understand the risks and how to protect yourself. Please contact EHS if you cannot locate an SDS or need assistance in understanding safe handling of a material.

SDS Online

QR code now available!