The purpose of this chapter is to provide the reader with information on regulations for the safe and proper use, storage, and handling of hazardous materials.
Although this chapter does not cover all the requirements concerning the handling and storage of hazardous materials, it is a good starting point.
Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS)
On December 29, 1970, President Richard M. Nixon signed the Occupational Safety and Health Act, which established the Occupational Safety and healthadministration, known as OSha.
OSHA’s mission is twofold: one is to prevent work- related illnesses, injuries, and death by issuing and enforcing workplace safety and health standards. The second is to create a better work environment for the workforce ensuring the safety of everyone. OSHA accomplished this mission by making and enforcing certain standards to protect workers.
OSHA requires that a material safety data sheet (MSDS) be supplied when a chemical or hazardous substance is purchased. The law requires that a copy of the MSDS be maintained and available on request by the person(s) using this material.
When unpacking a shipment of chemicals, look for the MSDS in the box. File the MSDS in a folder in the location where the chemical is being used.
MSDSs should be kept on file for two reasons:
1. To help protect personnel from injury and exposure hazards.
2. To abide by the law.
Read each MSDS before handling or using hazard- ous material. Everyone who uses the chemical product must understand its dangers and the precautions to be taken while using it.
Figure 9-1 provides a brief description of the sections of an MSDS. Figure 9-2 shows an MSDS for ferric chloride.
Recipients of MSDSs should consult the OSHA Safety and Health Standards for guidance on control of potential occupational health and safety hazards.
Questions
1. What is the purpose of an MSDS?
2. What is the first thing a person should do when unpacking a shipment of chemicals?
3. What happens when a school or employer fails to provide students or employees the MSDS to be read when they are working with chemicals?
4. What are the sections of an MSDS?
5. Who should be contacted regarding general guidance of potential health and safety hazards?