Material Safety Data Sheets
Know the hazards associated with the materials you use! Always review chemical safety information, such as an MSDS or other resource, before starting work with a new or unfamiliar chemical.
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Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDSs) |
Introduction
Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) provide necessary information about precautions for protecting against known hazards associated with the material and often include useful information on chemical, physical, and toxicological properties, along with suggestions for storing, transporting, and disposing of chemicals. MSDSs are the best general source of information available, and they should be consulted as a first step in assessing the risk associated with doing an experiment or working with a new product. However, because there is currently no standard format for MSDSs, their quality varies widely, and the information that they contain may be inappropriate for laboratory use. Exercise caution when using MSDS's and use non-MSDS sources for additional information. If you need additional assistance call EH&S at 9-2553.
Material Safety Data Sheets |
Chemical Hazards Information |
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The University of California's Environmental Health and Safety Offices have combined efforts and resources to create a ‘one-stop’ source for MSDS's and chemical safety information. This search engine will be growing as UC routinely adds major chemical vendors into its integrated database. To access this UC MSDS database you must be connected through a recognized UC campus computer. |
Thomson Micromedex is a commercial database that provides easy access to chemical hazard, environmental, toxicological and medical information needed for the safe use and management of chemicals. The UC EH&S Offices have obtained a site license for this excellent resource, and it is available to all main UC sites with UC IP addresses. |