Reading a Safety Data Sheet — Module 2: The 16 Sections Explained
What you'll learn in this module
- What each of the 16 SDS sections contains
- Which sections are most important for day-to-day cleaning work
- How to quickly locate the information you need in an emergency
The 16 Sections of a Safety Data Sheet
Every SDS produced under UK REACH regulations must contain exactly 16 sections, in the same order. This standardised format means that once you know the structure, you can find the information you need quickly — even on an unfamiliar product.
All 16 SDS sections — standardised under UK REACH regulations
| Section | Title | What It Tells You |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Identification Key | Product name, supplier details, intended use, emergency contact number |
| 2 | Hazard Identification Key | GHS hazard classifications, hazard statements, warning symbols |
| 3 | Composition / Ingredients | Chemical ingredients and their concentrations |
| 4 | First Aid Measures Key | What to do if inhaled, swallowed, or in contact with skin or eyes |
| 5 | Fire Fighting Measures | Suitable extinguishing media, hazardous combustion products |
| 6 | Accidental Release Measures Key | Spillage procedures, containment, clean-up methods |
| 7 | Handling & Storage Key | Safe handling precautions, storage conditions, incompatible materials |
| 8 | Exposure Controls / PPE Key | Workplace exposure limits, required PPE (gloves, goggles, respirator) |
| 9 | Physical & Chemical Properties | Appearance, odour, pH, flash point, solubility |
| 10 | Stability & Reactivity | Conditions to avoid, materials it reacts with |
| 11 | Toxicological Information | Health effects from exposure — acute and chronic |
| 12 | Ecological Information | Environmental hazards, persistence, bioaccumulation |
| 13 | Disposal Considerations Key | How to safely dispose of the product and its container |
| 14 | Transport Information | UN number, transport hazard class, packaging group |
| 15 | Regulatory Information | Specific regulations applicable to the product |
| 16 | Other Information | Date of issue, revision history, sources of key data |
Sections marked Key are the ones most relevant to day-to-day cleaning work. In an emergency, go straight to Section 4 (First Aid) or Section 6 (Accidental Release).
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Disclaimer: This micro-course provides a general introduction to Safety Data Sheets. It is not a substitute for full professional training or legal advice. Always follow your employer's procedures and refer to current HSE and UK REACH guidance for your specific workplace.