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how many sections in sds

sds regulationshow many sections in sds, how many sections does sds have, what are the sds format requirements

How many sections in an SDS?

If you’re asking how many sections in SDS documents, the answer is straightforward: Safety Data Sheets use a standardized 16-section format under the Globally Harmonized System (GHS). In the U.S., OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard (HazCom), 29 CFR 1910.1200, requires chemical manufacturers and importers to develop SDSs in a consistent format so employers and workers can quickly find critical safety information.

You may also see the question phrased as how many sections does SDS have or how many sections are required on an SDS—for OSHA-aligned SDSs, the expectation is the same: 16 sections presented in a specific order.

A consistent 16-section SDS format helps employees locate first aid, exposure controls, PPE, spill response, and disposal information quickly—especially during an emergency.

OSHA and SDS format requirements (29 CFR 1910.1200)

To understand what are the SDS format requirements, it helps to separate two related ideas:

  • SDS content requirements: what information must be included (hazards, ingredients, first aid, exposure controls, etc.).
  • SDS format requirements: how that information must be organized so it’s easy to navigate.

OSHA’s HazCom standard (29 CFR 1910.1200) aligns with the GHS approach by requiring SDSs to follow the 16-section format. This standardized structure supports compliance and improves usability across industries.

Who is responsible for SDSs?

Under HazCom:

  • Chemical manufacturers and importers must develop and provide SDSs for hazardous chemicals.
  • Distributors must ensure SDSs are provided downstream.
  • Employers must maintain SDSs for hazardous chemicals in the workplace and ensure they are readily accessible to employees during each work shift.

These employer duties are central to overall SDS requirements and are frequently cited during inspections: if employees can’t quickly access the SDS, the program isn’t functioning as intended.

The 16 SDS sections (in order)

Below is the complete answer to how many sections are required on an SDS and what each section covers. OSHA expects SDSs to follow this order so users don’t have to hunt for key information.

Sections 1–8: Identification, hazards, and worker protection basics

  1. Identification

    • Product identifier, recommended uses, supplier details, and emergency phone number.

  2. Hazard(s) Identification

    • GHS classification, signal word, hazard statements, pictograms, and precautionary statements.

  3. Composition/Information on Ingredients

    • Chemical identity, common names, CAS numbers, and concentration ranges (as applicable).

  4. First-Aid Measures

    • Necessary first aid by route of exposure; symptoms/effects and special treatment notes.

  5. Fire-Fighting Measures

    • Suitable extinguishing media, specific hazards, and PPE/special precautions for firefighters.

  6. Accidental Release Measures

    • Spill cleanup methods, containment, and emergency procedures.

  7. Handling and Storage

    • Safe handling practices and storage conditions (including incompatibilities).

  8. Exposure Controls/Personal Protection

    • Exposure limits (OSHA PELs, ACGIH TLVs if provided), engineering controls, and PPE recommendations.

Sections 9–11: Physical properties and stability/toxicology

  1. Physical and Chemical Properties

    • Appearance, odor, pH, flash point, vapor pressure, density, solubility, etc.

  2. Stability and Reactivity

  • Reactivity, chemical stability, possible hazardous reactions, conditions to avoid, and incompatible materials.
  1. Toxicological Information
  • Routes of exposure, related symptoms, acute/chronic effects, numerical toxicity measures (where available).

Sections 12–15: Environmental and regulatory information (still part of the 16)

  1. Ecological Information
  • Environmental impacts such as ecotoxicity and persistence (note: OSHA does not enforce this section’s content, but it remains part of the 16-section format).
  1. Disposal Considerations
  • Disposal guidance and handling for contaminated packaging (also typically regulated by environmental agencies; OSHA doesn’t enforce content, but the section is included).
  1. Transport Information
  • DOT shipping description, hazard class, UN number, packing group, etc. (included for format consistency).
  1. Regulatory Information
  • Safety, health, and environmental regulations specific to the product (format included; content often overlaps with other regulatory programs).

Section 16: Other information

  1. Other Information
  • Revision date, references, and other relevant notes.

Common SDS compliance pitfalls (and how to avoid them)

Even though the answer to how many sections in SDS is clear, many organizations struggle with ongoing SDS compliance and access. Common issues include:

  • Missing SDSs for new or rarely used chemicals
  • Outdated versions (no revision tracking)
  • SDSs stored in multiple locations (emails, binders, shared drives)
  • SDSs not readily accessible to employees on all shifts
  • Inventory mismatch (chemicals onsite that aren’t represented in the SDS library)

These gaps can lead to confusion in an emergency and may create compliance risk under 29 CFR 1910.1200.

What are the SDS format requirements beyond “16 sections”?

Employers often ask what else OSHA expects besides the 16 headings. While OSHA focuses heavily on access and completeness, practical SDS format requirements and program expectations typically include:

  • Consistent labeling and identifiers that match your container labels and chemical inventory
  • Legible, complete documents (no missing pages, corrupted PDFs, or unreadable scans)
  • Immediate employee access without barriers (especially during emergencies)
  • Training so employees understand how to use SDS sections (e.g., finding PPE in Section 8 or first aid in Section 4)

A well-run HazCom program links your inventory, labels, training, and SDS library so workers can find and apply the information quickly.

How SwiftSDS helps manage SDS requirements and maintain compliance

Managing a 16-section SDS for every hazardous chemical becomes difficult as inventories grow, products change, and suppliers update documents. SwiftSDS helps reduce that burden by organizing SDSs and inventory information in one place.

With SwiftSDS, you can:

  • Maintain a centralized SDS library in a secure cloud location
  • Support OSHA HazCom (29 CFR 1910.1200) alignment by making SDSs easier to keep current and accessible
  • Use GHS support to keep classification and labeling information organized
  • Track chemicals with inventory management (locations, quantities, expiration dates)
  • Provide mobile access so employees can retrieve SDS information from any device—ideal for warehouses, production floors, and field work

This is especially helpful when you’re trying to confirm that every hazardous chemical onsite has a corresponding SDS and that employees can access it during each work shift.

Final checklist: quick answers about SDS sections

  • How many sections in SDS? 16.
  • How many sections does SDS have? 16.
  • How many sections are required on an SDS? 16, in a standardized order.
  • What are the SDS format requirements? OSHA’s HazCom (29 CFR 1910.1200) expects SDSs to follow the 16-section GHS-aligned format and be readily accessible to employees.

Call to action

If you’re struggling to keep SDSs complete, current, and accessible across multiple locations or shifts, SwiftSDS can help. Explore how a centralized, mobile-friendly SDS library and chemical inventory tools simplify compliance—get started with SwiftSDS today: Request a demo.