Are SDSs on a Computer in the Office Enough

Question:

Your employer lets you know that the Safety Data Sheets are located on a computer in his office. Does this comply with employer responsibilities?

Expert Verified Answer:

Does Storing Safety Data Sheets on a Computer Meet Employer Responsibilities?

When it comes to managing workplace safety, the accessibility of Safety Data Sheets (SDSs) is a key responsibility for employers. Here’s a breakdown of whether keeping SDSs on a computer in the employer’s office meets these responsibilities:

Answer: Not Fully Compliant

While storing Safety Data Sheets on a computer is a good practice, it doesn’t fully meet the requirements for accessibility under OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) standards. Here’s why:

Accessibility Requirement: OSHA regulations stipulate that Safety Data Sheets must be readily accessible to all employees during their work shifts. This means that employees should be able to access these documents easily and quickly, especially in emergency situations.

Location of SDSs: If SDSs are only available on a computer in the employer’s office, they may not be readily accessible to all employees, particularly those who work in different areas of the facility or during non-office hours. In such cases, employees might face delays in accessing critical safety information.

Electronic Access: For electronic access to be compliant, the system should ensure that all employees can view and retrieve the SDSs without barriers. This typically involves having an accessible and user-friendly digital system or ensuring that there are alternative means of access, such as printed copies in easily accessible locations.

To fully comply with employer responsibilities, Safety Data Sheets should be made available in a manner that ensures all employees have easy access to the information when needed. This could include providing electronic access through a company-wide network or having physical copies in key locations throughout the workplace.