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Material Data Safety Sheets

The Material Safety Data Sheet, or MSDS, is a document that gives detailed information about a material and about any hazards associated with the material. OSHA specifies that each MSDS must include, at a minimum, the information listed in the twelve sections below.

Item 1: Chemical Identity
The chemical identity as listed on the label, the material's chemical and common names, and a list of all hazardous ingredients.

Item 2: Physical Data
Physical and chemical characteristics, such as vapor pressure, flash point, density, boiling point, etc.

Item 3: Physical Hazards
Fire and explosion data. Reactivity data. These usually appear as two separate sections on the actual MSDS.

Item 4: Health Hazards
Signs and symptoms of exposure, and any medical conditions generally recognized as being aggravated by exposure to the material.

Item 5: Primary Route(s) of Entry
The route(s) by which the material could most likely enter the body.

Item 6: Exposure Limits
Legal exposure limits (OSHA and other recommended limits). This frequently includes toxicity information.

Item 7: Whether the Material is Carcinogenic
States whether the material has been found to be carcinogenic.

Item 8: Precautions for Safe Handling and Use
Any precautions for safe handling and use know to the party preparing the MSDS, such as appropriate hygienic practices, protective measures required during handling of contaminated equipment, and procedures for clean-up of spills and leaks.

Item 9: Control Measures
Any control measures known to the party preparing the MSDS, such as engineering controls, work practices, or personal protective equipment.

Item 10: Emergency and First-Aid Measures
Self explanatory.

Item 11: Revision Data
Date of preparation of the MSDS, and the date of the last change to it.

Item 12: Manufacturer Contact Information
Name, address, and telephone number of the party responsible for the MSDS, who can provide additional information about the material if necessary.

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