Since 1974, UK law has pushed suppliers to give workers clear information on chemical hazards. In this guide, we walk you through the journey from early MSDS-style sheets to the modern 16-section SDS. You’ll see the key legal milestones, the practical differences, and how the change boosts safety and compliance.
MSDS vs SDS: Key Differences
| Aspect | MSDS | SDS |
|---|---|---|
| Format | Any order, any length | Fixed 16 sections per REACH Annex II |
| Signal words & icons | Often missing | Mandatory GHS pictograms + “Danger”/“Warning” |
| Hazards, First-aid & PPE info | Scattered throughout | Always in Sections 2, 4 & 8 |
| Regulatory details | May be missing or partial | Sections 12-15 group eco, transport, legal info |
| Updates | Manual and easy to overlook | Revision date & version on page 1 |
MSDS Format Challenges That Led to SDS Standardisation
A single, nation‑wide format lets employers plug SDS data directly into COSHH risk assessments, helping them identify control measures and justify exposure limits faster. Because it mirrors GHS hazard classes, labels on containers match the warnings in Section 2, cutting the chance of misinterpretation during an incident.
History Behind MSDS and SDS in the UK
The table below talks about the timeline of the introduction of hazard information and the significance of every milestone reached:
| Year | Milestone | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| 1976 | UK chemical firms publish voluntary “hazard data sheets” for tanker drivers. | First industry-led framework for sharing chemical-hazard information. |
| 1988 | EU Directive 88/379/EEC requires an MSDS for dangerous mixtures. | Establishes a legal obligation to provide safety data sheets across the EU. |
| 1991 | Directive 91/155/EEC fixes the 16 standard headings. | Introduces the structured format that still underpins today’s SDS. |
| 1994 | The UK transposes both directives with CHIP 1. | Brings EU MSDS requirements into domestic legislation. |
| 2006 | REACH Regulation 1907/2006 repeats the 16-section sheet and mandates timely updates. | Reinforces consistency and introduces systematic revision rules. |
| 2008 | CLP Regulation 1272/2008 aligns labels and sheets with the UN GHS. | Harmonises UK hazard communication with global standards and pictograms. |
| 2010 / 2015 | Deadlines (Reg. 453/2010 then Reg. 2015/830) force all MSDS to convert to SDS. | Finalises the transition to the 16-section SDS for substances and mixtures. |
| 2021 | After Brexit, the same text moved into UK REACH and GB CLP. | Confirms the SDS as the sole legal format for Great Britain going forward. |
How SDS Improves Safety and Compliance
Because each SDS follows the same 16 section format, COSHH assessments are quicker and easily auditable. Inspectors cross-check Section 2 against the label in seconds, while workers head straight to Section 4 for first aid. This results in stricter control measures, fewer enforcement notices and smoother trade across the UK.
Keeping Your SDS Accurate and Up to Date
UK law sets no fixed review period, but suppliers must revise an SDS as soon as new hazard data, GB CLP reclassification, or a UK REACH authorisation/restriction demands it. The updated version, clearly dated and marked “Revision”, must reach all customers supplied in the previous 12 months.
For employers, storing SDS electronically is acceptable if staff can reach the files instantly during their shift. Pairing a cloud‑based SDS management system with automated change alerts helps prove diligence during HSE inspections.
Final Thoughts
The journey from the non-uniform MSDS folders to the standardised, GHS-aligned SDS took four decades. Standard wording, clear icons and fast updates now let UK companies reduce safety gaps, protect staff and stay compliant with GB CLP, REACH and COSHH.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the difference between an MSDS and an SDS?
An SDS follows a fixed 16-section GHS format; an MSDS did not. - Why did the UK move to the SDS format?
To align with UN GHS via the CLP Regulation and remove confusion between suppliers. - When did the SDS become compulsory?
From 1 June 2015, but legal duties to supply safety sheets date back to 1988 (Directive 88/379/EEC) and CHIP 1 in 1994. - Do MSDS and SDS cover the same content?
Yes, the SDS just organises the data in a clear, standard order. - What must appear on an SDS?
Signal word, GHS pictograms, hazard and precaution statements, plus all 16 numbered sections. - How often should an SDS be reviewed?
Immediately after new hazard data and at least every 12 months to ensure accuracy.