Affiliates:

THE SELF-GUIDED MSDS*

1. Find the year the MSDS was written or updated.
   • If it is 5 years old or more, consider asking the manufacturer (or your supervisor) for an updated version if one exists.
2. Look for the HMIS or NFPA hazard rating (0 - 4) to use as a guideline for degree of hazard of the product.
3. Locate the chemical names and synonyms.
   • Look for familiar carcinogens and other toxic chemicals.
4. Look at percentage of chemical in the product and the corresponding PEL and TLV exposure limits.
   • A small exposure limit (e.g. 5 ppm, or 10 mg/m3) indicates a potentially more toxic chemical. Consider also the amount (%) of chemical in the product.
5. Scan the MSDS for blanks and ‘NA’, ‘ND’, or ‘NE’.
   • If a category important to your health contains these, you might consider getting more information from the manufacturer or your supervisor.
6. Locate the routes of exposure. This information can help you decide what personal protective gear to use.
7. Identify acute and chronic effects so you can be aware of any symptoms that might arise.
8. Look at the recommended personal protection measures; based on your interpretation of MSDS information and your best judgment, decide if you should do more to protect your health, or if you should choose not to use the product.

For an in-depth look at an example MSDS see MAKING SENSE OF AN MSDSÑA Case Study of Phenol.

TAKING CHARGE OF YOUR HEALTH SAFETY*

1. Become familiar with the names of carcinogenic chemicals.
2. Recognize generally what the exposure limits (PEL, TLV) mean.
3. Identify routes of exposure.
4. Minimize your exposures through:
   • good hygiene practices
   • proper use of personal protective equipment
   • adequate ventilation
   • use of safer products
5. Be aware of any symptoms that may indicate a hazardous exposure.