What Does an MSDS Number Mean?

Material Safety Data Sheets are required to ensure chemical safety in the workplace.

Material Safety Data Sheets are federally required documents that accompany chemicals in the workplace. OSHA mandates that specific information pertaining to a chemical--including properties, precautions for safe handling and emergency procedures--be documented and distributed by the manufacturer or distributor of the chemical.

Misconceptions

An MSDS number is not actually part of the information contained within the data sheet.

Significance

Assigning a unique identifier, or number, to an MSDS makes the document easier to locate. Because one is not assigned by law, many companies create their own systems of MSDS identifiers.

Considerations

Since the same chemical may come from several different manufacturers or distributors, it is beneficial to use a consistent system to identify the chemical, rather than the commercial name of the chemical.

CAS Numbers

CAS registry numbers, assigned by the Chemical Abstract Service, provide an industry standard for chemical compound identification. Many companies choose to use CAS numbers as MSDS numbers.

Local Numbers

In the absence of another standard, many companies choose to assign local numbers. These numbers serve as adequate identifiers of MSDSs, but they are company or site specific.

References

• OSHA: Occupational Safety and Health Standards
• "Prudent Practices in the Laboratory--Handling and Disposal of Chemicals"; National Research Council; 1995