Which agency requires a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for hazardous materials?

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration, commonly known as OSHA, mandates the use of Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS), now commonly referred to as Safety Data Sheets (SDS). This requirement is part of OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard, which aims to ensure that employees are informed about the hazards associated with chemicals they may encounter in the workplace. The SDS provides essential information about the chemical, including its properties, potential hazards, safe handling and storage procedures, and emergency response measures.

By requiring SDS, OSHA helps to protect workers' health and safety by ensuring they have access to crucial information that helps them understand how to handle hazardous materials properly, thereby minimizing risks associated with such materials in industrial and laboratory settings.