Chemicals Safety Data Sheet

Chemicals have become an indispensable part of every industry. They are also used in agriculture in the form of lubricants, cleaning agents, paints, solvents, pesticides, and the like. Every user should be aware of the "health hazards" of their chemicals and protect themselves accordingly. Information on this can be found in the – still little-noticed – safety data sheet.

A safety data sheet is available for all chemicals with hazard labeling. It is available from the manufacturer, retailer, or online and provides users with a wealth of important information in a clear format. For example: What health hazards does the product pose? What personal protective equipment do I need to use? What first aid measures are necessary after accidents? How serious is the environmental hazard? What is the composition?

A safety data sheet is divided into 16 sections. Section 2 (Hazards) and Section 8 (Protective Equipment) are particularly interesting for safety- and health-conscious users. Section 2 contains the hazard and safety information, including the hazard pictograms. It is worth noting that the hazard pictograms have been standardized worldwide and therefore now have a diamond shape. Section 8.2 lists the "personal protective equipment" required for use. The necessary eye, respiratory, and hand protection, as well as skin and body protection, are listed there. The SVB safety advisory service recommends observing Section 8.2, especially for insecticides.

Employed companies are required to enter the chemicals used on the farm, along with their hazard labels, into a list. The corresponding safety data sheets must be available in paper or electronic format. The "Personal Protective Equipment" listed under Section 8.2 must be available on the farm. Inspections may be conducted by the labor inspector.

The use of chemicals also brings many benefits to agriculture. A safety data sheet can be used to conduct a simple risk assessment to ensure that this benefit does not become a health disadvantage.