🧪 Why a Safety Data Sheet cannot just be translated

 The Safety Data Sheet must be adapted, not just translated

SDS Xperts warns: translating a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) without adapting it to local requirements can result in serious legal non-compliance and safety risks. Many companies operating internationally still believe that a literal translation of an SDS is sufficient to comply with regulations—which is far from the truth.

Regulations such as REACH and CLP require local compliance

SDSs in the European Union are subject to strict rules defined by the REACH Regulation (EC No. 1907/2006)  and the CLP Regulation (EC No. 1272/2008) . Both establish criteria for the classification, packaging, and labeling of chemical substances. However, many countries, including Portugal , impose additional requirements—particularly in areas such as occupational exposure limits, residues, and transport.

Differences that invalidate direct translations

Occupational exposure limits vary between countries

Occupational exposure limit values (ELVs) are  defined individually by each Member State. A limit applied in Germany, for example, may be more restrictive in Portugal. Translating an SDS without reviewing these values can compromise workers' health and violate national regulations.

First aid and environmental measures require customization

The sections of the FDS related to:

• First aid (Section 4)

• Firefighting (Section 5)

• Accidental Spills (Section 6)

...must be adapted to local emergency practices and resources. Ignoring this adaptation can render response instructions useless, worsening accidents and penalties.

Waste management and transport: mandatory national legislation

Portuguese legislation on chemical waste disposal  and the transport of dangerous goods  (ADR, RID, IMDG, IATA) imposes specific criteria that must be included in the SDS. Non-compliance may result in environmental sanctions, customs retentions, or sales freezes.

If an SDS does not comply with Portuguese law, companies may face:

• 💸  Severe fines : Fines from ASAE, ACT or IGAMAOT can exceed tens of thousands of euros.

• 🚫  Sale ban : Products may be withdrawn from the market.

• ⚖️  Legal liability : The supplier may be held liable in the event of an accident.

• 📉  Loss of reputation : Non-compliance damages the company's image among customers and partners.

Conclusion: each Safety Data Sheet must be adapted to the market

SDS Xperts recommends: never use a translated SDS . Each market requires a technical document adapted to its local legislation and practices. This customization ensures not only legal compliance but also user safety and your company's reputation.

📌 Sources :

• REACH Regulation

• CLP Regulation

✉️ Need help with SDS adapted to the Portuguese or European market?

Talk to the SDS Xperts team—experts in REACH, CLP compliance, labeling, and technical preparation of Safety Data Sheets.