SDS Xperts warns: a poorly prepared Safety Data Sheet can cost you dearly – in fines, operational risks, and loss of customer trust. 🔎 The Safety Data Sheet (SDS)   is a mandatory document that ensures the safe use of hazardous substances and mixtures, in accordance with REACH   and CLP  . Yet, many companies make critical mistakes that jeopardize legal compliance. Learn about the 7 most common mistakes   when issuing SDSs and how to avoid them: ❌ Mistake 1: Using outdated SDS 📅 Regulations such as REACH and CLP are frequently revised. Older SDSs may contain incorrect information about hazards, safety precautions, or transportation. ✅ Solution  : Schedule periodic reviews. Keep your SDSs aligned with the latest European legislation. ❌ Error 2: Automatically create SDS with generic software 🤖 Automated tools often ignore specific product features or local requirements. ✅ Solution  : Use a specialized technical service like SDS Xperts, which ensures personalized SDS with real value for your customers. ❌ Error 3: Poorly done or non-standard translations 🌍 SDSs must be in the language of the country and in accordance with the regulations where the product will be sold. Translation errors or failure to comply with local legislation can lead to legal issues and difficulties in communicating hazards. ✅ Solution  : Rely on teams with experience in chemical safety regulations and certified technical translation. ❌ Error 4: Incorrect classification of substances ⚠️ Incorrect classifications compromise safety and can lead to fines. It's essential to correctly classify the final mixture and its hazardous constituents. ✅ Solution  : Check that the classification follows the CLP Regulation criteria, with qualified technical support. ❌ Error 5: Omission of UFI and CIAV registration 📑 Without the Unique Formula Identifier (UFI) and registration with CIAV, the product classified as dangerous cannot be marketed in Portugal. ✅ Solution  : Register all hazardous mixtures in the CIAV and insert the UFI in the SDS and label. ❌ Error 6: Incorrect transport data 🚛 An error in transport classification can lead to cargo being blocked or severe fines. The obligations fall on the shipper (even if the product is not produced by the shipper). ✅ Solution  : Ensure compliance with ADR, IMDG or IATA rules, depending on the mode of transport. ❌ Error 7: Not making the SDS available to customers 📩 The SDS must be provided to the end user at the time of sale, or whenever updated. ✅ Solution  : Maintain a system for shipping and tracking SDSs. Ensure delivery to customers over the past 12 months. 📌 Avoid costly mistakes. Trust SDS Xperts to ensure full compliance with REACH and CLP.  We specialize in preparing, updating, and translating Safety Data Sheets   for chemical manufacturers, importers, and distributors in Europe. 📞 Contact us today   to ensure your product's compliance and your customers' safety.

Companies that produce, import, or distribute chemical products face stringent requirements. Among the most important documents are Safety Data Sheets (SDS). More than a legal requirement, these sheets are strategic prevention and protection tools. 🔍 SDS Xperts   specializes in the customized preparation of SDSs, with a strong focus on compliance and security. We operate with a unique approach, ensuring that each document complies with applicable legislation in European markets. 📘 The importance of the Safety Data Sheet 🧪 Safety Data Sheets are mandatory technical documents. They provide critical information on hazards, safe handling, and protective measures associated with chemical substances and mixtures. 📜 Compliance with REACH   and CLP  regulations  requires that these documents be kept up to date. This ensures not only the safety of workers and the environment, but also compliance with legal obligations. ✅ Suppliers of chemical products in the European Economic Area must ensure that each SDS is correct, clear and adapted to its end use. These tokens allow: 🏷️ Create safe and appropriate labels. 🚚 Provide guidance on correct transportation and storage. 📂 Provide useful safety information in day-to-day life or in audits and inspections. ções. 🧾 Safety Data Sheet and the role of SDS Xperts At SDS Xperts  , we understand that each chemical has a specific application context. Therefore, we don't use automatic, generic solutions. We offer: 🧑‍🔬 Preparation of SDS in compliance with REACH and CLP. 🌍 Translations and adaptations to local legislation (Portugal, Spain, Italy, others). 🧷 Support in creating UFI codes and CIAV registrations. 🕵️‍♂️ Technical support and specialized consultancy. 🎯 Our goal is simple: to guarantee security, legality and credibility for your company in the European market. ⚖️ Legislation and Compliance: the direct impact on operations European legislation, namely the REACH   and CLP  regulations , determines clear criteria for the marketing of chemical products. 📉 Strict compliance with these standards: Avoid fines and sanctions. Protects workers and the environment. Demonstrates responsibility and professionalism towards clients and authorities. 📈 Compliance   is therefore not only a legal requirement, but a competitive advantage. 🏁 Conclusion: Safety Data Sheet as a strategic differentiator Creating an effective Safety Data Sheet   goes beyond a legal obligation. It's a commitment to your company's safety and reputation. 💡 SDS Xperts   ensures that each SDS is a valuable document, technically robust and adapted to local requirements.📬 Get in touch   and find out how we can help your company always be compliant, with confidence and peace of mind.

The daily management of Safety Data Sheets (SDS) is a demanding and resource-intensive task within any company. It's a deeply technical topic that requires constant attention to changes in current legislation and corresponding adjustments to company processes. This document aims to summarize what an SDS is and add some suggestions and precautions to take in its daily management. Introduction to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Safety data sheet management is the backbone of chemical product safety, and its importance is vital. Safety data sheets are the primary source of information for employers and workers, outlining the hazards of chemicals and the risks they pose to people and the environment, as well as measures to control these risks. Safety data sheets are essential sources of information for properly managing health and safety in the workplace. However, the SDS alone is not sufficient. The SDS itself doesn't take into account your specific location, task, or how you use the product. Therefore, it's important to create a chemical risk assessment that takes these additional requirements into account. Safety data sheets are essential documents in a standard format that are used to inform all workers and safety personnel about how chemical substances and mixtures of substances can be handled, used, stored, disposed of, and any emergency measures necessary in the event of an accident or incident. Safety data sheets (SDSs), sometimes referred to by their former name as material safety data sheets (MSDSs), have had many formats over the years. Since the introduction of the GHS Regulations, a new structured, unified, and standardized approach to ensuring the safe use of chemicals has been introduced globally. While not all countries worldwide have yet adopted the GHS Regulations, since June 1, 2015, in Europe, all new SDSs compiled must conform to the new SDS format. Safety data sheets are divided into 16 sections and additional subsections. In this guide, we will highlight the main elements of each section and explore their importance. It is important that all employees have read the SDSs for all chemicals they work with and have the knowledge to understand them. Typically, manufacturers/suppliers will provide SDSs with the product, either electronically or in hard copy. If they do not, it is up to the company/chemical user to contact the manufacturer and request a safety data sheet or find a reputable supplier who provides an SDS. Before bringing the product to the site, review the hazards and determine its suitability. In other words, don't bring a product to the site if safer alternatives exist. Having a safety data sheet isn't enough; you must have the relevant safety data sheet for your geographic region. According to European legislation, a compliant SDS must contain the following: Sixteen sections Classification and labeling according to GHS/CLP Language of the market where the product is being marketed/where it will be used Legislation on Safety Data Sheets (SDS) Safety data sheets must be prepared in accordance with the REACH Regulation (Regulation (EC) No. 1907/2006) and the CLP Regulations (Regulation (EC) No. 1272/2008). These regulations set out the requirements for product classification and the format of the SDS. Article 31 of REACH requires a chemical supplier (manufacturer, importer, downstream user, distributor) to provide their customer with a compliant SDS if the chemical they supply is hazardous. In some cases, SDSs must be provided whenever the customer requests them for non-hazardous chemicals and that meet specific criteria as defined in the regulations. Annex II of the REACH Regulation (EC) No. 1907/2006 has always defined the requirements for the preparation of an SDS since its introduction in 2007. In 2015, Annex II was revised by Regulation (EC) No. 2015/830 to take into account changes in the CLP Regulation and the 5th edition of the United Nations Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS). According to REACH regulations in Europe, safety data sheets must be updated or reissued in the following cases: New product information is added that may alter the chemical risk or hazard, such as a new classification. In this case, an updated SDS must be issued. If an ECHA authorisation has been granted or refused. Or if a restriction has been imposed by ECHA. Understanding the SDS (Safety Data Sheet) Most companies that purchase/use chemicals understand the legal requirements for obtaining and maintaining a safety data sheet. However, many companies don't understand what to do with the information provided in the SDS they obtain. All data provided is created with the goal of ensuring the protection of all chemical users. The safety data sheet, according to the REACH guidelines, must contain the following 16 headings.  The most important sections are Sections 1, 2, 3, 4, 7, 8, and 15: Section 1: Identification of the substance/mixture and of the company/undertaking Includes supplier contact details (product name, company name, address, emergency phone number) Section 2: Hazard Identification Provides an overview of the physical and health risks associated with the use of the chemical. Includes: Hazard classification Word of warning Pictograms Hazard Statement Precautionary statement Description of any hazards not otherwise classified Additional requirements according to legislation Section 3: Composition/information on ingredients Includes approximate formula, molecular weight, concentration and CAS Number. Section 4: First aid measures Indicates what to do in case of a dangerous situation. Section 5: Firefighting measures Suitable protective equipment and extinguishing methods. Section 6: Measures in case of accidental release Containment, cleaning and exposure prevention practices. Section 7: Handling and storage Tips for safe storage and use. Section 8: Exposure controls/personal protection I Information on PPE (glasses, gloves, etc.). Section 9: Physicochemical properties Description of the properties of the substance. Section 10: Stability and Reactivity Dangerous reactions, chemical stability and more. Section 11: Toxicological information Routes of exposure, symptoms, toxicity, acute and chronic effects. Section 12: Ecological information Environmental impact of the chemical. Section 13: Disposal Considerations How to dispose of and treat waste. Section 14: Transport information Classification and standards for transportation Section 15: Regulatory information Legislation applicable to the substance. Section 16: Other Information Other relevant data, reviews, training, etc. Chemical Classification How do we know which chemicals are classified as hazardous and which are not? This information comes from the classification system. Since 2015, the CPL/CHIP system has been replaced by the CLP Regulation (part of the GHS). The orange square symbols have been replaced by diamond-shaped pictograms with a red border. If the product is classified as hazardous, the corresponding pictogram will appear in section 2. SDS Checklist ✅ Check that the language and legislation are correct for your market. ✅ Confirm that it is dated and has details of the revisions. ✅ Archive current and past versions (paper or digital). ✅ Prioritize sections 1, 2, 3, 8, 9, 14. ✅ Check that the label corresponds to sections 1 and 2 of the SDS. ✅ Request a new version from the supplier if necessary. ✅ Use the SDS as a basis for risk assessments, PPE definition, and emergency response. ✅ Ensure access and training of employees on the SDS. ✅ Periodically review the SDS to ensure updates.

⚙️ 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  . Our services include: •• 📄 Preparation or review of SDSs   based on REACH and CLP  ; • 🌍 Technical adaptation for multiple European countries  ; • 🧾 Generation of UFI codes, registration with CIAV and support in inspections  . 📩 Talk to SDS Xperts   and find out how to ensure the continued validity of your safety data sheet safely and efficiently.

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.