Why should labs have a standard operating procedure (SOP) for a chemical when the manufacturer safety data sheet (SDS) is available? Both documents are required in the lab and offer different types of important information about a chemical.
Use the SOPs versus SDSs Focus Sheet to understand the types of information provided by each document and how to effectively use them as part of your laboratory’s chemical hygiene plan.
An SDS describes the physical and health hazards of a chemical (or chemical-containing product).
- An SDS is created by the manufacturer or vendor.
- SDSs can be a good source of information for assessing risks associated with the storage, use, and transport of a chemical.
- Use the information found in an SDS for writing a new chemical SOP.
SOPs are specific, detailed instructions that describe the required safety measures for a process, chemical, or chemical class used in the lab.
- SOPs include information about potential hazards, consequences and the necessary controls to manage the potential risks.
- SOPs list information and actions required of the lab personnel (specific to the lab) to prevent an exposure or accident.
Please refer to Sections 2 and 6 of the UW Laboratory Safety Manual for more information, and contact the Lab Safety Team with questions.