What is SDS Authoring?

SDS authoring is the process of preparing Safety Data Sheets (SDS) that provide clear information on a product’s hazards, safe handling, and regulatory requirements. It ensures that essential safety details are passed accurately through the chemical supply chain, from manufacturers and importers to employers and end users.

Traditional SDS authoring is a time consuming and difficult process. Businesses can simplify this task by using SDS authoring software, which helps maintain consistency, accuracy, and compliance with national and international regulations.

Why SDS Authoring Matters

• Compliance: In Australia, SDS documents are required under the Work Health and Safety (WHS) Regulations, which implement the GHS.
• Workplace Safety: Employees, contractors, and emergency responders depend on SDS documents for guidance on storage, handling, and disposal of hazardous chemicals.
• Risk Management: Proper SDS authoring helps businesses avoid fines, liability issues, and breaches of WHS duties.
• International Trade: Standardised SDS authoring ensures information can be understood across countries and languages, making trade easier.

Incomplete or inaccurate SDSs can result in safety risks, compliance breaches, and costly supply chain disruptions.

SDS Authoring: The 16-Section GHS Format

SDS Authoring follows the 16-section format mandated by GHS. Each section must be completed thoroughly and with scientifically validated data.

1. Identification - Product identifier, manufacturer details, emergency contact information
2. Hazard Identification - Classification, label elements, other hazards
3. Composition/Information on Ingredients - Chemical identity and concentration ranges
4. First Aid Measures - Emergency response procedures for different exposure routes
5. Fire-Fighting Measures - Suitable extinguishing media, special hazards, protective equipment
6. Accidental Release Measures - Spill cleanup procedures and containment methods
7. Handling and Storage - Safe practices for use and storage conditions
8. Exposure Controls/Personal Protection - Occupational exposure limits and PPE requirements
9. Physical and Chemical Properties - Appearance, odor, pH, melting point, etc.
10. Stability and Reactivity - Chemical stability, incompatible materials, hazardous decomposition
11. Toxicological Information - Health effects data from studies and testing
12. Ecological Information - Environmental fate and effects data
13. Disposal Considerations - Waste treatment methods and regulatory requirements
14. Transport Information - Shipping classifications and special precautions
15. Regulatory Information - Safety, health, and environmental regulations
16. Other Information - Date of preparation, revision information, disclaimers

The Process of SDS Authoring

Data Collection

• Gather physical/chemical property data, toxicological studies, and exposure limits.
• Source information from lab testing, published literature, or suppliers.

Hazard Classification

• Classify chemicals according to the WHS Regulations in line with GHS
• Assign signal words (e.g., Danger, Warning), pictograms, and hazard statements.

Content Development

• Write clear, easy-to-understand language that can be understood by non-experts.
• Ensure alignment with regulatory phrasing (standardized hazard and precautionary statements).

Formatting & Structuring

• Follow the mandatory 16-section format.
• Use consistent terminology across documents.

Localization

• Prepare SDSs in English.
• Ensure alignment with Safe Work Australia requirements under the WHS Regulations.

Review & Validation

• Conduct internal compliance checks.
• Sometimes involve third-party validation or regulatory consultants.

Distribution & Maintenance

• Provide SDS to customers, distributors, and employees.
• Update SDS when new data or regulatory changes occur (e.g., new exposure limits, reclassification of hazards).

Modern Approaches to SDS Authoring

Traditionally, SDS authoring is handled by in-house experts or outsourced to consultants, both of which can be costly and time-consuming. This approach introduces delays and errors in the SDS authoring process.

Now, many Australian organisations rely on specialised SDS authoring solutions that automate hazard classification, track regulatory changes, and handle multi-region requirements. These systems reduce complexity and make it easier to maintain compliance.

Final Thoughts

SDS authoring is the organized process of creating Safety Data Sheets that provide clear, accurate, and compliant information about chemical hazards. SDS authoring is a key part of chemical safety and regulatory compliance.

For companies working across different markets, using reliable SDS authoring software is one of the best ways to protect employees, meet regulations, and keep operations running without disruption.