Creating your own Safety Data Sheets (SDS) is possible if you manufacture, import, or distribute hazardous chemicals and need to communicate their hazards. However, SDS creation must follow strict formatting and legal guidelines — especially under Australia’s Work Health and Safety (WHS) Regulations and the Globally Harmonized System (GHS).
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create compliant SDSs:
- Know When You’re Legally Required to Provide an SDS
You must prepare an SDS if you:
- Manufacture or import a hazardous chemical
- Supply or distribute hazardous chemicals in the workplace
- Intend to communicate hazard and safety information clearly and accurately
Reference: Safe Work Australia SDS Requirements
- Understand the Format: 16 Standard Sections
All SDSs must follow the internationally accepted 16-section format under GHS, including:
- Identification
- Hazard(s) identification
- Composition/information on ingredients
- First-aid measures
- Fire-fighting measures
- Accidental release measures
- Handling and storage
- Exposure controls/PPE
- Physical and chemical properties
- Stability and reactivity
- Toxicological information
12–15. Ecological info, disposal, transport, regulations (required under GHS globally but optional under Australian WHS laws) - Other information
Reference: Safe Work Australia SDS Code of Practice
- Collect Key Information
You’ll need:
- Full chemical identity (CAS numbers, % composition)
- Health, physical, and environmental hazards
- Emergency first aid and firefighting procedures
- Recommended PPE and handling instructions
- Toxicological and ecological data (from reputable sources or testing)
- Classify the Chemical
Use GHS classification rules to identify:
- Health hazards (e.g. carcinogenicity, acute toxicity)
- Physical hazards (e.g. flammable, explosive)
- Environmental hazards (e.g. aquatic toxicity)
You can use tools like:
- Hazardous Chemical Information System (HCIS) by Safe Work Australia
➤ https://hcis.safeworkaustralia.gov.au - Lupin SDS Authoring Software
- Write the SDS in Clear, Simple Language
- Avoid technical jargon where possible
- Use metric units (litres, mg/m³, °C)
- Ensure it’s written in English (and translated if exporting)
- Review and Update Regularly
You must:
- Review SDSs every 5 years, or sooner if chemical info changes
- Provide updated SDSs to downstream users
- Provide SDSs to Users
Make SDSs easily accessible:
- Provide hard copies in hazardous chemical areas
- Upload digital versions to your intranet or cloud SDS system
- Include with chemical shipments
Tools to Help You Create SDSs
If you prefer automation or help, consider:
- Lupin Chemical Management
Tip:
If you’re unsure about legal compliance or classification accuracy, use a certified chemical safety consultant or a platform like Lupin, which ensures automated classification and regulatory compliance.