MSDS, improving workplace safety Published June 8, 2010 By Rod Krause 5th Bomb Wing Ground Safety MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- Chad was applying an epoxy sealer to the floor of a small production room when he started feeling nauseous and dizzy. He thought back to his supervisor's last words: "Remember to check the MSDS [material safety data sheet], Chad, and be sure you take the right precautions." He had checked the MSDS. But the technical jargon was too much to sift through, so he thought he'd just take his chances with gloves and safety glasses. Unfortunately for Chad, he needed to wear a respirator for this particular job--he was informed of that when he came to. He had passed out from breathing toxic fumes. Training is the key The MSDS is the key to communicating hazards and safe handling procedures of chemicals workers use on the job. But this information is only helpful if Airmen are trained to comprehend the sometimes technical information. As OSHA puts it: "Giving a worker a data sheet to read does not satisfy the intent of the standard with regard to training." This makes it the job of the supervisor to make sure the MSDS is understandable. Have a lesson plan Before beginning the training session, organizing the information and developing appropriate handouts will be necessary. Since most units use large numbers of chemicals, it is virtually impossible to train workers on each one. Instead, group the chemicals by categories that make sense for the unit's operation, such as solvents, acids, bases, gases, etc. Then it will be possible to deal with additional information about individual substances within each group. Make copies of sample MSDSs for each chemical group and highlight the important information. Have on hand a corresponding container label. Have a second handout that provides a glossary of terminology used on MSDSs. If possible, make overheads of these handouts. Crucial information Start off by explaining what the MSDS is and why it is so important. Tell workers that these sheets contain vital safety and health information about each chemical in the workplace, such as: · Exposure limits · Health effects of overexposure · Safe handling procedures · Emergency procedures · Personal protective equipment · Engineering controls Explain that the chemical manufacturer is required to provide an MSDS with each chemical that arrives in the workplace. Tell those in need of the information where these sheets are located and how to access them (additional training may be needed if MSDSs must be retrieved from a computer database). Informed workers Supervisors should encourage those under their command to take the time to read the MSDS and label before using any chemical. Detailed training sessions will help them feel confident that they can safely handle these substances without harming themselves.