SDS information must be available to a person handling the substance within 10 minutes of the information being required.
DOCUMATION FOR HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES IN THE WORKPLACE
Safety Data Sheets (SDSs) are designed to protect the health and safety of people in the workplace by providing information on the hazards of substances and how they should be safely used, stored, transported and disposed of. SDSs also describe emergency procedures, such as what to do in the event of a spill or fire.
The hazardous substances regulations require that your workplace have a safety data sheet (SDS) available for each hazardous substance that is present in excess of the relevant threshold quantity. In reality, regardless of the quantities you have, it is best practice to have SDS for each hazardous substance at your site. Along with the product label, the SDS is the most important means of conveying safety information.
The seller or supplier of a hazardous substance must supply an SDS if:
- Requested to do so
- The substance being sold or supplied to a workplace is above the relevant threshold quantity
- They had not previously supplied a SDS for that substance.
The seller or supplier is also responsible for ensuring the SDS is compliant.
The Code enables suppliers to ensure information about Hazardous Substances and Dangerous Goods prescribed by HSNO is quickly and accurately conveyed to users and the Emergency Services.
CONTACT USPURPOSE OF SAFETY DATA SHEETS
The purpose of the SDS is to advise employers and workers of acceptable preventive action for averting incidents in relation to workplace hazards. The safety data sheet is a detailed information bulletin prepared by the manufacturer or importer of a hazardous substance which helps prepare employers and employees to respond effectively to daily exposure situations as well as emergency situations.
The seller or supplier is responsible for ensuring the SDS is compliant. The person in charge of the workplace must ensure that SDSs are present and available to workers, where threshold quantities are exceeded. A SDS must be available to a person handling the substance within 10 minutes.
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WHY JOIN RESONSIBLE CARE® NEW ZEALAND?
RCNZ is recognised by government and industry as a trusted source of timely and credible technical advice about compliance with workplace health and safety and environmental protection, particularly the safe management of chemicals, including hazardous substances and dangerous goods.
RCNZ ensures members’ interests are reflected in the development and implementation of safety, health and environmental (SH&E) protection policies, regulations, performance standards, and compliance options.
