SDS and Safety Data Sheets for Hazmat Shipping Compliance

Using Safety Data Sheets for Hazmat Shipping

Safety Data Sheets (SDS, formerly MSDS) are essential documents for anyone involved in hazardous materials shipping. These 16-section documents contain the chemical information you need to properly classify, package, label, and ship hazardous materials. Understanding how to read and apply SDS information is a fundamental skill for hazmat compliance.

Key SDS Sections for Shipping

While all 16 sections contain valuable information, several are particularly critical for shipping compliance. Section 2 (Hazard Identification) provides the GHS classification. Section 9 (Physical/Chemical Properties) gives you flash point, boiling point, and other data needed for DOT classification. Section 14 (Transport Information) provides the UN number, proper shipping name, hazard class, and packing group specifically for transport.

Section 14: Transport Information

Section 14 is the most directly relevant for shipping decisions. It should provide the UN identification number, DOT proper shipping name, hazard class and division, packing group, environmental hazard designation, special provisions that apply, and any transport-specific exceptions. However, Section 14 information should be verified against the Hazardous Materials Table in 49 CFR 172.101, as SDS documents may not always reflect the most current regulations.

SDS vs DOT Classification

An important distinction: SDS documents use the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) for hazard classification, while DOT uses its own classification system under 49 CFR. While there is significant overlap, the classifications are not identical. A material classified as a health hazard under GHS may or may not be regulated for DOT transport. Go Freight’s compliance team can help you reconcile SDS information with DOT requirements.

Maintaining SDS Files

OSHA requires employers to maintain accessible SDS files for every hazardous chemical in the workplace. For shipping operations, this means having current SDS documents for every hazmat product you handle. Go Freight maintains SDS files for all materials we regularly transport and can access SDS information quickly during transport through our digital documentation system.

When SDS Information Is Insufficient

Sometimes SDS documents lack the specific transport information needed for DOT compliance, particularly for mixtures and proprietary formulations. In these cases, the shipper may need to perform additional testing or consult with a hazmat classification expert. Go Freight’s logistics team can connect shippers with classification resources when SDS information is incomplete.