Reading a Safety Data Sheet — Module 2: The 16 Sections Explained
Reading a Safety Data Sheet · Module 2
The 16 Sections Explained
Every SDS follows the same 16-section layout. Learn it once and you can find what you need on any product, fast.
- Free taster
- Module 2 of 3
- About 5 minutes
Free taster micro-course. This is a short introduction to the topic, not full professional training. For in-depth courses with assessments and certificates, see the CCMTec® Academy.
What you'll learn in this module
- What each of the 16 SDS sections contains
- Which sections matter most for day-to-day cleaning work
- How to find the information you need quickly in an emergency
The 16 sections of a Safety Data Sheet
Every SDS produced under UK REACH must contain the same 16 sections, in the same order. Once you know the structure, you can find what you need quickly, even on a product you've never used before.
Sections marked Key are the ones you'll use most in day-to-day cleaning work.
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01
Key
Identification
Product name, supplier details, intended use, emergency contact number.
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02
Key
Hazard identification
Hazard classification, hazard statements and warning pictograms under GB CLP.
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03
Composition and ingredients
Hazardous ingredients and their concentrations.
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04
Key
First aid measures
What to do if inhaled, swallowed, or in contact with skin or eyes.
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05
Firefighting measures
Suitable extinguishing media, hazardous combustion products.
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06
Key
Accidental release measures
Spillage procedures, containment, clean-up methods.
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07
Key
Handling and storage
Safe handling precautions, storage conditions, incompatible materials.
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08
Key
Exposure controls and PPE
Workplace exposure limits and required PPE such as gloves, goggles or a respirator.
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09
Physical and chemical properties
Appearance, odour, pH, flash point, solubility.
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10
Stability and reactivity
Conditions to avoid, materials it reacts with.
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11
Toxicological information
Health effects from exposure, both short and long term.
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12
Ecological information
Environmental hazards, persistence, bioaccumulation.
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13
Key
Disposal considerations
How to dispose of the product and its container safely.
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14
Transport information
UN number, transport hazard class, packing group.
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15
Regulatory information
Specific regulations that apply to the product.
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16
Other information
Date of issue, revision history, sources of key data.
Section 4 tells you the first aid to give. Section 6 tells you how to deal with a spillage.
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Explore full coursesDisclaimer: This micro-course is a general introduction to Safety Data Sheets and is not a substitute for full professional training or legal advice. Always follow your employer's procedures and current HSE and UK REACH guidance for your workplace.