Final answer:
Safety Data Sheets (SDS) are the written materials that provide essential safety information on hazardous chemicals for workers and emergency personnel, required by the OSHA Hazard Communication Standard. They cover information on handling, hazards, and emergency measures related to chemical substances.
Step-by-step explanation:
The written materials that contain essential information necessary for the safe handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous chemicals are known as Safety Data Sheets (SDS). These documents are a vital element of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's (OSHA) Hazard Communication Standard, ensuring that workers and emergency personnel are informed about the chemical properties, hazards, protective measures, and safety precautions related to hazardous substances. The SDS includes information such as the substance's properties, health and environmental hazards, protective measures, and safety precautions for handling, storing, and transporting the chemical.
Under the authority of OSHA, employers are required to provide these sheets and ensure that they are readily accessible to all employees who may come into contact with hazardous chemicals. SDSs are designed to provide comprehensive information about a substance, allowing for proper risk assessment and management in the workplace. Additionally, the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) hazard diamond found on containers provides a quick-reference summary of the major hazards associated with a chemical substance.
The proper use and disposal of hazardous chemicals are critical not only for worker safety but also for environmental protection. In the United States, the Department of Transportation's hazardous materials regulations and the Environmental Protection Agency's hazardous waste regulations must also be followed when dealing with these substances.