📄 Is the safety data sheet valid? Understand legal obligations and best practices

Eurico Cruz
Aug 13
3 min read

⚙️ The safety data sheet in the context of REACH

SDS Xperts specializes in preparing and reviewing safety data sheets (SDS) , ensuring full compliance with European regulations. One of the most common questions among manufacturers, importers, and distributors is: is an SDS valid? Even if the document is up-to-date from a regulatory perspective, does it need to be reviewed regularly?

The answer is technical and depends on several factors defined in the REACH Regulation (EC) No. 1907/2006 , as well as the CLP Regulation (No. 1272/2008) . Below, we explain when an SDS should be updated and what best practices to adopt.

⏳ Is there an expiration date for a safety data sheet?

Although REACH does not define a fixed validity period for an SDS, it does require that it be updated in specific situations. Therefore, the validity of an SDS is directly related to its compliance with current legislation and the existence of relevant changes .

According to Article 31 of REACH , updating the safety data sheet is mandatory whenever:

• ⚠️ New information about hazards or risk management measures emerges ;

• 🧪 There is a new classification according to the CLP assigned to the substance or mixture;

• 📑 REACH authorizations or restrictions are assigned or changed ;

• 🔄 Relevant changes occur in the supply chain that affect product safety.

📬 Who should the new version of the SDS be sent to?

Whenever a safety data sheet is updated, the revised version must be made available free of charge to all customers who have received the product in the last 12 months . This obligation ensures that all users have access to the most up-to-date and reliable information.

🧐 What if nothing changes? Do I need to update?

Even if no changes occur , it is highly recommended to implement a periodic review of the SDSs . Although legislation does not require fixed deadlines, authorities in some European countries may request updated SDSs during inspections or audits.

Good practices include:

• 📆 Review the FDS every 2-3 years to align with possible legislative updates;

• 🧾 Check the entire structure of the document and confirm that it is clear and complete;

• 🌍 Ensure compliance with local requirements in export markets.

✅ Recommendations for maintaining the validity and compliance of the SDS

To ensure that your safety data sheet remains valid and is REACH and CLP compliant , SDS Xperts recommends:

• 📅 Create an internal plan for periodic review of all SDSs;

• 🔍 Monitor changes to REACH Annexes XIV and XVII ;

• 🇪🇺 Adjust the SDS content based on local European regulatory requirements .

🔒 Update your FDS with technical confidence

The lack of a formal expiration date does not exempt companies from keeping their data sheets up to date and compliant . SDS Xperts offers a comprehensive service to ensure that your SDSs meet legal requirements , are adapted to target markets , and withstand any audit .