Final answer:
A Safety Data Sheet (SDS) provides essential information on hazardous chemicals, including hazards, characteristics, and protective measures. Employers are responsible for informing workers about these hazards as mandated by OSHA.
Step-by-step explanation:
The role of a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is to provide detailed information on each hazardous chemical, including its potential hazardous effects, its physical and chemical characteristics, and recommendations for appropriate protective measures. Safety Data Sheets are an essential component of the Hazard Communication Program, which aims to ensure that individuals are fully informed about the hazards associated with chemicals they might encounter. SDS documents contain vital information on how to safely handle, store, and dispose of chemicals, as well as first aid measures and measures to protect the environment.
Employers have a responsibility to inform workers about chemical hazards, which can be done through training and providing access to SDSs. Moreover, strategies such as replacing hazardous substances with safer ones, using ventilation systems, and implementing color-coded systems are advised by OSHA to reduce exposure risks. Additionally, the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) hazard diamond provides a quick reference for the major hazards of a chemical.