Safety Data Sheets for Cleaning
What is it?
Exposure to chemicals may produce health effects that happen straight away, like poisoning and burns, or cause long-term health conditions, like nerve damage, lung damage, or cancer. Some chemicals can present a physical hazard, such as fires, explosions, and corrosion.
Almost every hazardous chemical will require a Safety Data Sheet (SDS). SDS has important safety information that can help keep employees safe. Aged care facilities have a register of hazardous chemicals used, handled, or stored, including the current SDS for each of these chemicals. By reading, understanding, and following the information and instructions in an SDS, all chemicals should be able to be used safely.
Guidelines for cleaning employees
Cleaners need to know where to find the SDS in case of a chemical-related incident or an emergency
SDS must be readily accessible via an electronic system, QR code system, or paper copy
SDS must
Be monitored and updated regularly to ensure that they are up-to-date and at least not more than five years old
Be simple and easy to be read
Give clear first-aid instructions and how to manage spills and exposure events
Be readily available in a location accessible to employees (cleaners' rooms and chemical storage locations)