Do I need an SDS in my language?

Short answer

Yes — Safety Data Sheets (SDSs) must be available in a language that the people handling the source of risk understand. This is an important part of ensuring safe handling and meeting requirements in occupational health and safety and chemical management.

Why is this important?

An SDS contains information that is used to:

• understand what risks a source of risk involves

• choose the right protective measures

• handle spills and incidents

• carry out risk assessments

If the SDS is not understandable to the people using the source of risk in practice, there is a risk that critical information will not reach them.

What applies in practice?

In practice, this means that:

• If employees handle sources of risk in Sweden, you will normally need SDSs in Swedish.

• If employees do not understand Swedish, you must ensure that the information is still understandable, for example through:

  • Protective sheets in the correct language

  • clear instructions

  • training

  • accessible safety information in the workplace

Is it enough to have the SDS in English?

That depends on the organisation.

If the employees handling the source of risk:

• fully understand English, it may work in practice in some cases

• do not understand English, it is not a safe solution

A good rule of thumb is:

If the information is needed during an incident (e.g. a splash in the eye), it must be understood immediately.

What should we do if we cannot obtain an SDS in the correct language?

If the supplier cannot provide an SDS in the correct language, you should:

• request a correct SDS from the supplier

• ensure that employees still have access to understandable safety information (e.g. through Protective sheets)

• document how you handle information and training until the correct SDS is available