Introduction to MSDS Standards and Their Application in Coatings

1.Origin and Evolution of MSDS (SDS)

SDS (Safety Data Sheet) is a comprehensive document that contains information on product components, physical and chemical properties, hazard identification, safe use measures, storage information, transportation measures, etc. It is one of the main ways to transmit information in the supply chain.

The differences between MSDS and SDS are mainly reflected in the name, formulation standards, content specifications and scope of application, as follows:

1). Name and regional usage habits

MSDS: The full name is “Material Safety Data Sheet”, which was developed by the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and is mainly used in the United States, Canada, Australia and some Asian countries.

SDS: The full name is “Safety Data Sheet”, which is an updated version of MSDS. It was developed by the United Nations Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS) and has been fully adopted by GHS-compliant countries such as the European Union and China.

2). Establish standards and content specifications

MSDS: An early version lacks global standards, and its content varies by country/region (e.g., US OSHA has eight items, Canadian WHMIS has nine). It focuses on traditional hazard identification and verbal descriptions.

SDS: Adopts the GHS standard, containing 16 fixed sections (such as hazard identification, first aid measures, and transportation requirements), and mandates the use of standardized symbols, signal words, and phrases, providing more systematic and complete information.

3). Scope of application

MSDS: Applies to legacy management systems prior to the implementation of GHS. Some countries that haven’t fully adopted GHS still use this term.

SDS: A globally standardized standard adopted after the implementation of GHS. It’s particularly suitable for exporting to international markets like the EU and meeting regulatory requirements like REACH.

4). Terminology evolution

Since 2009, China has renamed MSDS to SDS (GB/T 16483-2008 “Material Safety Data Sheet – Content and Item Sequence”), but the old name “MSDS report” may still be retained in actual use.

2.The important role of coating MSDS (SDS)

Whether in domestic trade or import and export trade, coating chemical manufacturers or sellers will provide customers with a detailed product safety data sheet, also known as MSDS (SDS). As the most basic technical document for conveying coating product safety information, its main functions are:

1. Provide data on the physical and chemical parameters, flammability and explosion properties, toxicity, and environmental hazards of coating chemicals.
2. Ensure safe operation and provide technical information for the development of safe operating procedures for hazardous chemicals, as well as emergency rescue and disposal of leaks.
3. Provide technical information that facilitates emergency rescue and accident response.
4. Serve as an important foundation and information source for the registration and management of coating chemicals.
5. Guide the safe production, safe circulation, and safe use of coating chemicals.
6. In international trade, the quality of MSDS (SDS) is a key indicator of a company’s strength, image, and management level. High-quality coating products paired with high-quality MSDS (SDS) will inevitably increase business opportunities.

3.Contents of Paint MSDS (SDS)

The content of an MSDS (SDS) varies depending on the legal requirements of different countries. The EU, ISO, US OSHA, ANSI, and China require that an MSDS (SDS) contain 16 basic items (ISO 11014 or GB/T 16483):

1. Chemical Name and Composition Information;
2. Hazard Identification (GHS Classification);
3. Ingredients/Composition Information;
4. First Aid and Fire Fighting Measures;
5. Fire Fighting Measures;
6. Emergency Release Measures;
7. Handling and Storage Requirements;
8. Exposure Controls and Personal Protection;
9. Physicochemical Properties;
10. Stability and Reactivity;
11. Toxicological Information;
12. Ecological Information;
13. Disposal and Disposal;
14. Transportation Information;
15. Regulatory Information;
16. Other Information.

4.Validity period of coating MSDS (SDS) report

If the paint product is still in normal use, the validity period is generally one year. If you encounter the following situations, you need to update it immediately:

1. Changes in MSDS (SDS) regulations;
2. Demonstration of new hazards associated with the substance;
3. Changes in the chemical composition of the product.

MSDS (SDS) helps paint manufacturers and users understand the hazards and risks of paint and take necessary safety measures to protect the health and safety of themselves and others.

As safety regulations for chemical companies and hazardous chemicals become increasingly stringent, coatings and related companies need to attach great importance to the authenticity and accuracy of MSDS (SDS) identification information.