Staying compliant with Australian regulations regarding Safety Data Sheets (SDS) management involves adhering to a range of requirements outlined in Australian Work Health and Safety (WHS) laws, as well as standards set by Safe Work Australia and other relevant authorities. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to maintain compliance with SDS management in Australia:
- Understand the Legal Framework
- Work Health and Safety (WHS) Act and Regulations: Under the WHS Act (and corresponding regulations in each state or territory), manufacturers, importers, and suppliers of hazardous chemicals must provide Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for any chemical classified as hazardous.
- Model WHS Regulations (published by Safe Work Australia) provide guidance on the requirements for SDS, including their content, storage, and accessibility.
- Ensure SDS are Available and Up-to-Date
- Provision of SDS: SDS must be provided for all hazardous chemicals you import, manufacture, or supply. They should be provided with the first shipment and available to workers who handle or work with these chemicals.
- Updated SDS: SDS must be updated at least once every five years or sooner if new information becomes available, such as new safety or toxicological data.
- Format and Content Requirements
The content and format of an SDS in Australia must meet the following key guidelines:
- GHS Compliance: SDS should be compliant with the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals, as incorporated into Australian regulations. This means the SDS must include information such as:
- Product identification
- Hazard identification (with GHS symbols)
- Composition/information on ingredients
- First-aid measures
- Fire-fighting measures
- Accidental release measures
- Handling and storage information
- Exposure control/personal protection
- Physical and chemical properties
- Stability and reactivity
- Toxicological information
- Language and Clarity: SDS must be written in clear English and avoid jargon. They should be legible and easy to interpret for anyone who needs to use them, particularly workers handling the chemicals.
- SDS Accessibility
- Availability at the Workplace: Employers must ensure that SDS are readily accessible to workers who may be exposed to hazardous chemicals. This could be through physical copies, digital copies, or a combination of both.
- Worker Training: Workers must be trained on how to read and understand SDS. This includes understanding how to access the information and how to apply the details to safe work practices.
- Storage and Distribution
- Proper Storage: SDS should be stored in a manner that ensures they remain easily accessible and do not degrade over time. This may involve storing them in binders or folders in the workplace or electronically on a secure system with easy access.
- Electronic Systems: Many organizations store SDS electronically to ensure they are always accessible and to reduce paper waste. Electronic SDS management systems should comply with the WHS regulations and be user-friendly.
- Record Keeping and Documentation
- Record Retention: It is critical to retain a record of all SDS provided by manufacturers, suppliers, or importers for the chemicals you use. This includes maintaining records of when you received or last updated the SDS.
- Regulatory Inspections: Ensure that the records are available for inspection by WHS regulators or auditors.
- Compliance with State-Specific Regulations
- Each state or territory may have specific amendments or additional requirements to comply with, so it is important to be familiar with the local jurisdiction’s rules and regulations. Some states may have additional reporting or labelling requirements for chemicals or processes.
- Review SDS Regularly
- Routine Audits: Regularly audit your SDS to ensure they are current, accurate, and compliant with the latest regulatory standards.
- Supplier Updates: Stay informed about updates from chemical suppliers. If there’s a new revision to an SDS, ensure it is immediately incorporated into your workplace systems and communicated to staff.
- Ensure Proper Labelling
- Labels Must Match SDS: The chemical labels at your workplace must reflect the information contained in the SDS, including hazard pictograms, signal words, and precautionary statements.
- Correct Labeling for Imported Chemicals: For imported chemicals, ensure that the labels meet Australian GHS standards, as there may be differences from the country of origin.
- Ensure Workers are Informed
- Worker Education: Provide training on how to interpret and use SDS to handle chemicals safely. This includes knowing what to do in case of emergencies, like chemical spills or exposure.
- Consultation with Workers: It’s important to consult with workers in the process of SDS management, especially if changes in chemical use or new chemicals are introduced into the workplace.
- Follow Industry-Specific Guidelines
- Some industries have additional requirements or best practices for SDS management. For example, construction, mining, and manufacturing industries may have specific rules about chemicals used in those sectors.
Penalties for Non-Compliance:
Non-compliance with SDS management in Australia can lead to fines, penalties, or even legal actions, especially if incidents occur and there are records showing that the employer did not meet their obligations regarding SDS.
By maintaining an organized, up-to-date, and comprehensive approach to SDS management, businesses can ensure they stay compliant with Australian regulations and provide a safe working environment for all employees.
Lupin Chemical Management is a valuable, time-saving tool to quickly and accurately create GHS compliant Safety Data Sheet (SDS), product labels and other documentation. It also allows you to effectively manage your organisation’s library of safety data sheets.