APRIL 2026
KNOW YOUR CHEMICALS: UNDERSTANDING SDS
Know Your Chemicals:
Understanding SOS
April's focus is chemical safety and understanding Safety Data Sheets (SOS).
Every cleaning product you use - disinfectants, glass cleaners, floor chemicals - has an SOS. These are not just documents kept in a binder. They are there to protect you.
An SOS explains:
- What the chemical is
- What hazards it has
- How to use it safely
- What to do if something goes wrong
In this issue:
Know Your Chemicals:
Understanding SDS
Safety Data Sheets
Protecting Your Skin & Breathing
Listen To Your Body
WHERE TO FIND THE SDS BOOK
SOS are kept in your onsite Safety Binder.
The binder must be:
- Easy to access
- Clearly labeled
- Available during your shift
If you do not know where it is:
Ask your supervisor
You should never work with chemicals without access to SOS.
FIND YOUR SDS IN 3 STEPS
1.Check the product label
➔ Identify the exact product name
2.Go to the SOS binder
➔ Find the product (alphabetical or listed)
3.Match the name exactly
➔ Bottle label = SOS name
If you cannot find the SOS:
Do not use the product - report it
HOW THE SDS BOOK IS ORGANIZED
The SOS binder is designed for quick access.
It typically includes:
- A list of all chemicals used at the site
- Individual SOS sheets for each product
- Organized alphabetically or by product type
Each product must have its own SOS.
No SOS= Do not use the chemical
HOW TO READ AN SDS
(WHAT TO LOOK FOR)
SOS forms contain many sections. Focus on these
key ones:
Section 1 - Identification
- Product name
- Manufacturer
Confirms you have the correct sheet
Section 2 - Hazard Identification
- Main risks (irritant, flammable, corrosive)
Tells you what can harm you
Section 4 - First Aid Measures
- What to do for:
- Eye contact
- Skin contact
- Inhalation
Use this in an emergency
Section 7 - Handling & Storage
- How to safely use and store the product
Prevents spills and misuse
Section 8 - Exposure Controls I PPE
- Required protection:
- Gloves
- Eye protection
- Ventilation
Always match PPE to the SOS
QUICK SDS GUIDE (HOW TO USE IT FAST)
If something happens:
- Spill?➔ Check Section 7
- Exposure? ➔ Check Section 4
- Not sure it's safe?➔ Check Section 2
- What PPE do I need?➔ Check Section 8
IMPORTANT REMINDERS
- Only use approved chemicals
- Never mix chemicals
- Always check labels before use
- Do not use unlabeled bottles
- SOS and labels must match
IF YOU ARE UNSURE - STOP
If something doesn't seem right:
- Stop the task
- Do not guess
- Check the SOS
- Ask your supervisor
Taking a moment to confirm prevents injuries.
Protecting Your Skin
& Breathing
Cleaning chemicals can affect your body if used
incorrectly. Protecting yourself daily helps prevent
irritation and long-term issues.
PROTECT YOUR SKIN
- Wear gloves when required
- Wash hands after handling chemicals
- Avoid direct contact
PROTECT YOUR SKIN
- Wear gloves when required
- Wash hands after handling chemicals
- Avoid direct contact
PROTECT YOUR BREATHING
- Use chemicals in ventilated areas
- Avoid inhaling sprays
- Do not use chemicals in enclosed spaces without guidance
LISTEN TO YOUR BODY
If you feel:
- Skin irritation
- Burning eyes
- Headaches or dizziness
Stop work and report it immediately
APRIL REMINDER
Chemicals are safe when used correctly.
Know where the SDS book is
Know how to find your product
Know what to check
Use it when needed.
Safe2Say allows anyone on our team to anonymously report safety hazards, misconduct, or concerns. No judgment. No retaliation.
