What is the purpose of an OSHA Safety Data Sheet (SDS)?

• A. Provide training materials
• B. Provide emergency contact
• C. Communicate pertinent information about the product to the employee
• D. Set exposure limits

Answer: (C)

The essential purpose of a Safety Data Sheet is to communicate pertinent information about the product to the employee so they can handle it safely. It brings together key details about the product’s hazards, how to protect yourself (PPE and engineering controls), safe storage and handling, first-aid measures, spill and fire response, and basic regulatory and supplier information. This helps workers understand what they’re dealing with, how to use the product safely, and how to respond to emergencies.

Training materials can be derived from SDS content, but that’s not its primary role. Emergency contact information is included, but it’s a component of the SDS, not its main purpose. SDSs don’t set exposure limits; those are established by regulatory bodies and safety professionals, though they may reference limits in the hazard and exposure controls section.