Consultation on Guidance for
Preparing Safety Data Sheets
According to the Globally
Harmonized System of
Classification and Labelling of
Chemicals for Pest Control
Products in Canada
16 December 2016
(publié aussi en français)
This document is published by the Health Canada Pest Management Regulatory Agency. For further
information, please contact:
Publications
Pest Management Regulatory Agency
Health Canada
2720 Riverside Drive
A.L. 6607D
Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0K9
Internet:
[email protected]
healthcanada.gc.ca/pmra
Facsimile: 613-736-3758
Information Service:
1-800-267-6315 or 613-736-3799
[email protected]
© Her Majesty the Queen in Right of Canada, represented by the Minister of Health Canada, 2016
All rights reserved. No part of this information (publication or product) may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any
means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, or stored in a retrieval system, without prior written
permission of the Minister of Public Works and Government Services Canada, Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0S5.
.
Table of Contents
1.0 Introduction ....................................................................................................................... 1
2.0 Background ........................................................................................................................ 1
2.1
Safety Data Sheets and Pest Control Products ............................................................. 1
2.2
SDSs and Labels ........................................................................................................... 2
2.3
Basic Obligations .......................................................................................................... 2
2.4
SDS Information and GHS Hazard Classification ....................................................... 2
3.0 SDS Guidance to Registrants ............................................................................................ 3
3.1
Making SDSs Available to Workplaces ....................................................................... 3
3.2
International SDSs ........................................................................................................ 3
3.3
WHMIS 2015 Consistent SDSs.................................................................................... 4
3.4
Basic Contents of an SDS ............................................................................................. 4
3.4.1 16-Section SDS ......................................................................................................... 4
3.4.2 Label Reference ........................................................................................................ 4
3.4.3 Consistency with the Label ....................................................................................... 4
3.4.4 Length ....................................................................................................................... 5
3.4.5 Page Numbering........................................................................................................ 5
3.4.6 Language ................................................................................................................... 5
3.4.7 Missing Information.................................................................................................. 5
3.4.8 Numbers and Quantities ............................................................................................ 5
3.5
Updating an Existing SDS and Date of Issue ............................................................... 5
3.6
No Pre-Market Review of SDSs ................................................................................... 6
3.7
Use of Software to Create SDSs ................................................................................... 6
3.8
Implementation of the Guidance .................................................................................. 6
4.0 Next Steps .......................................................................................................................... 6
Appendix I SDS Format Requirements ....................................................................................... 9
Appendix II
Further Information on Required Content for GHS-consistent SDSs ................. 13
Section 1 Identification ........................................................................................................... 13
Section 2 Hazard identification ............................................................................................... 14
Section 3 Composition/information on ingredients ................................................................ 15
Section 4 First-aid measures ................................................................................................... 17
Section 5 Fire-fighting measures ............................................................................................ 18
Section 6 Accidental release measures ................................................................................... 18
Section 7 Handling and storage .............................................................................................. 19
Section 8 Exposure controls/personal protection .................................................................... 20
Section 9 Physical and chemical properties ............................................................................ 22
Section 10 Stability and reactivity ........................................................................................ 27
Section 11 Toxicological information ................................................................................... 28
Section 12 Ecological information ........................................................................................ 31
Section 13 Disposal considerations ....................................................................................... 32
Section 14 Transport information ......................................................................................... 33
Section 15 Regulatory information ....................................................................................... 35
Section 16 Other information ................................................................................................ 36
Appendix III PMRA Hazard Class and the Comparable GHS Hazard Class (or classes) ........ 37
Guidance for Preparing Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
Guidance for Preparing Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
1.0
Introduction
This consultation document, produced by Health Canada’s Pest Management Regulatory Agency
(PMRA), invites comments on the following guidance for registrants of pest control products on
the expected format and content of GHS-consistent 1 Safety Data Sheets (SDSs) for registered
pest control products in Canada.
This guideline is intended for the voluntary adoption and use by all registrants with a pest control
product registered in Canada. SDSs are primarily for use by workers (for example, handlers,
warehouse workers, agricultural workers, pre- and post- application workers, and vendors) in
workplaces involved in pest control product application and handling. Registrants should keep
this audience in mind when writing an SDS. However, registrants should also take into account
that SDSs are commonly used by emergency responders (including health professionals),
consumers, and those involved in the transportation of dangerous goods.
The PMRA invites the public to submit written comments up to 45 days from the publication of
this consultation document. Please forward all comments to PMRA Publications.
(See Section 4.0, Next Steps, for more information.)
2.0
Background
2.1
Safety Data Sheets and Pest Control Products
SDSs (previously called “material safety data sheets” or MSDSs) are an important part of
communicating the hazards associated with pest control products and other chemicals. The SDS
format found in Table 1.5.2 of the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) of classifying and
labelling of chemicals 2 has become the international standard format for SDSs used in
workplaces, with some modifications for each regulatory jurisdiction.
This document aims to help registrants prepare SDSs according to the GHS format and
classification system. This will in turn support compliance with any eventual regulatory
requirements for SDSs under the Pest Control Products Act to be established in the future.
1
GHS-consistent SDS means an SDS produced using an accepted version of the GHS (version 5 is the
version this guidance is largely adapted from but using versions 3, 4, or 6 would also be acceptable as long
as the Canadian specific pesticide information is included), or a GHS based system that has been adopted
by a recognized jurisdiction, see Sections 3.2 and 3.3.
2
Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS), 5th ed. 2013. New York:
United Nations. At: http://www.unece.org/trans/danger/publi/ghs/ghs_rev05/05files_e.html.
Guidance for Preparing Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
Page 1
2.2
SDSs and Labels
The approved pest control product label (the label), under the Pest Control Products Act, needs
to be followed at all times and in cases where there are any discrepancies between the approved
label and an SDS for that product it is the label information that prevails. Note that labels
approved under the Pest Control Products Act are not in the GHS.
2.3
Basic Obligations
To conform with this guideline, it is expected that:
• Registrants prepare bilingual (French and English) GHS-consistent SDSs for registered
Commercial, Restricted, and Manufacturing class pest control products; 3
• Registrants who develop SDSs make them available to workers and workplaces,
wherever pest control products are used, sold, stored, transported and handled in
Canada; and to the Minister of Health on request;
• Generally, SDSs be made available through websites and by email, however some
workplaces may require paper copies be provided to them; and
• SDSs indicate all hazards of the product using GHS-consistent classification.
At a minimum, registrants are expected to disclose ingredients on SDSs in the same manner as is
required for labels. 4 Registrants may further choose to list or group ingredients (see Section 3 of
Appendix II for more information).
This guidance does not call for the creation of GHS-consistent SDSs for Domestic Class pest
control products or to pest control products scheduled under the Pest Control Products Act and
Regulations. However, there may be situations where registrants or suppliers may want to make
an SDS available for Domestic Class or scheduled pest control products (for example, warehouse
storage, consumer requests); in which case, they may wish to use this guidance.
2.4
SDS Information and GHS Hazard Classification
The GHS is an international standard for communicating chemical hazard information through
labels and SDSs using a standardized 16-Section SDS format (see Appendix I for the list of
sections). The GHS label elements include signal words, symbols and hazard and precautionary
statements. The GHS provides classification criteria for physical, health and environmental
hazards associated with chemicals.
3
Pesticide classes are described in the Pest Control Products Regulations, see: http://lawslois.justice.gc.ca/eng/regulations/SOR-2006-124/page-1.html#s-1.
4
See section 43 of the Pest Control Products Act for more information on what ingredient information is
protected as confidential business information (CBI).
Guidance for Preparing Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
Page 2
To be GHS consistent, pest control products are to be classified by hazard class in accordance
with an accepted version of the GHS. 5 Implementing the GHS classification system for SDSs
should not require registrants to generate new data in order to derive a GHS classification. The
current data needed to register a pest control product should be sufficient to populate the 16section template.
3.0
SDS Guidance to Registrants
3.1
Making SDSs Available to Workplaces
Registrants are expected to make SDSs available to workers and workplaces wherever pest
control products are manufactured, possessed, handled, stored, transported, imported, distributed
or used in Canada. For the purposes of this document, “make available” includes distributing
SDSs electronically and publishing them online. However, it is also expected that registrants
provide paper copies to workplaces upon request. Consistent with the Pest Control Products Act
definition, a “workplace” is a place where a person works for remuneration (that is, for
pay/salary).
The SDS can be made available as an integrated bilingual document (for example, side by side),
or as a document with two unilingual parts that constitute one bilingual SDS.
3.2
International SDSs
As GHS is an international standard and in use by other jurisdictions, an SDS produced for
another country should only require minimal adaptation for use in Canada as a pest control
product SDS. Jurisdictions where this minimal adaption should be possible for registered pest
control product SDSs include the United States Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(US OSHA) Hazard Communication Standard 2012 (HCS 2012) and the European Union
Legislation on Classification, Labelling and Packaging of Chemicals in the GHS. For these
cases, the adaptation would be adding the relevant information to Section 1: Identification, and
Section 15: Regulatory Information as described in Appendix II.
Although sections 12 to 14 (ecological information, disposal considerations, and transport
information) are not mandatory under the United States’ HCS 2012, registrants of pest control
products may choose to include this information, if it is available.
5
The 5th revised edition of 2013 can be found at:
ttp://www.unece.org/trans/danger/publi/ghs/ghs_rev05/05files_e.html.
Guidance for Preparing Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
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3.3
WHMIS 2015 Consistent SDSs
An SDS that is consistent with the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System
(WHMIS 2015), that meets the requirements of the Hazardous Products Regulations, which were
published in the Canada Gazette, Part II, on February 11, 2015, would be consistent with this
guideline with minimal adaptation. To be consistent with this guideline, these SDSs only need to
have the relevant information added to Section 1: Identification, and Section 15: Regulatory
Information as described in Appendix II.
Although sections 12 to 14 (ecological information, disposal considerations, and transport
information) are not mandatory under WHMIS 2015, registrants of pest control products may
choose to include this information, if it is available.
Note that pest control products, as defined in subsection 2(1) of the Pest Control Products Act,
are excluded from the application of the Hazardous Products Act (that is, pest control products
are exempt from the supplier labelling and SDS requirements of the Hazardous Products Act and
Regulations).
3.4
Basic Contents of an SDS 6
3.4.1
16-Section SDS
The information in the SDS is to be presented using the 16 sections outlined in Appendix I.
Information on the required content for each of the 16 sections of the GHS-consistent SDSs is
included in Appendix II.
3.4.2
Label Reference
All pest control product SDSs are to include a reference to the approved label as the label is the
main document to be followed for safety, use, and handling. Section 15: Regulatory Information
would be an appropriate section to indicate this information.
3.4.3
Consistency with the Label
As noted above, the existing hazard classification criteria for pest control products used on labels
is a different system than the GHS. Appendix III to this document outlines the PMRA hazard
class and the comparable GHS hazard class (or classes).
Differences between the approved label and the SDS hazard communications elements are to be
described in Section 15: Regulatory Information. For example, a GHS label element in section 2
of the SDS could indicate the signal word and hazard statement “Warning, Harmful if
swallowed” with the exclamation mark symbol inside a red square set at a point border shape;
whereas the approved label may indicate “Caution” and “Poison” with the skull and crossbones
symbol inside a black inverted triangle-shaped border.
6
GHS, Annex 4, at:
http://www.unece.org/fileadmin/DAM/trans/danger/publi/ghs/ghs_rev05/English/08e_annex4.pdf
Guidance for Preparing Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
Page 4
If the label contains environmental hazard statements these should also be included in Section
15: Regulatory Information. For example, if the statement “Toxic to aquatic organisms” is used
on the label, this should also be indicated on the SDS.
Other label differences in regulatory information (for example, disposal considerations) should
also be included in Section 15: Regulatory Information.
However, to avoid duplication, if the relevant label information is included in one section of the
SDS (for example, environmental label statements included in Section 12: Ecological
Information) it does not also have to be included in Section 15: Regulatory Information.
3.4.4
Length
An SDS is not a fixed length document. The length of the SDS will be commensurate with the
amount of information needed to clearly communicate the hazards and provide information on
the safe storage, handling, first aid, precautionary and emergency response measures, and
disposal of the product.
3.4.5
Page Numbering
All pages of an SDS are to be numbered and some indication of the end of the SDS should be
given (for example: “page 1 of 3”).
3.4.6
Language
The language used in the SDS should be simple, clear and precise, avoiding jargon, acronyms
and abbreviations as well as vague or misleading language such as “may be dangerous”, “no
health effects”, “safe under most conditions of use”, or “harmless”.
3.4.7
Missing Information
If the information to be provided under sections 1 to 16 of the SDS is not applicable or is
technically impossible to provide, the reasons for the absence of this information is to be clearly
stated under the relevant section.
Additionally, the SDS is to clearly differentiate between cases where negative test results are
available, cases where no information is available and cases where the information is not
applicable. For example: under Section 10: Stability and Reactivity, item 5 (incompatible
materials), if the pest control product is not reactive with any material, then it would be
appropriate to indicate that this item is “not applicable”.
3.4.8
Numbers and Quantities
Numbers and quantities on an SDS are to be expressed in units appropriate to Canada. In general,
the International System of Units (SI) is to be used.
3.5
Updating an Existing SDS and Date of Issue
Guidance for Preparing Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
Page 5
Registrants are to revise their SDSs whenever new scientific, technical, health or safety
information becomes available that will affect content, as well as when there are any changes in
product registration and registrant information.
The date of issue of the SDS is to be indicated prominently (for example, on the cover page). The
date of issue is the date the SDS version was made public. This generally occurs shortly after the
SDS authoring and publishing process is completed. Revised SDSs are to indicate the date of
latest revision of the SDS.
3.6
No Pre-Market Review of SDSs
SDSs are not part of the approved pest control product label and are not subject to pre-market
approval by PMRA.
3.7
Use of Software to Create SDSs
In developing GHS-consistent SDSs, registrants may wish to use software such as the Canadian
Centre for Occupational Health and Safety’s (CCOHS) CANWrite program (see
http://www.ccohs.ca/products/canwrite/). CANWrite has been designed to produce SDSs
compliant with WHMIS 2015 and/or the United States Occupational Safety and Health
Administration Hazard Communication Standard 2012, and can be adapted to accommodate pest
control products. An example of a SDS in the GHS format can be found on the CCOHS website
at: http://www.ccohs.ca/products/canwrite/sample_canwrite_msds.pdf.
3.8
Implementation of the Guidance
Registrants with pest control products registered in Canada are encouraged to adopt and follow
this guidance document from the date it is published.
4.0
Next Steps
The PMRA invites the public to submit written comments on this proposal up to 45 days from
publication. Please forward your comments to PMRA Publications, and include:
• Your full name and organization;
• Your phone number; and,
• Your complete mailing address or email address.
The PMRA will consider all comments received before publishing the final guidance document
on the Pesticides and Pest Management portion of the Health Canada website.
Comments or questions on this consultation or the proposed guidelines can also be directed to
the Pest Management Information Service, by subject, at:
Pest Management Information Service
Pest Management Regulatory Agency
Guidance for Preparing Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
Page 6
Health Canada
2720 Riverside Drive
Ottawa, Ontario
Address Locator: 6606D2
K1A 0K9
E-mail: [email protected]
Telephone: 613-736-3799
Toll-free: 1-800-267-6315
Facsimile: 613-736-3798
Teletypewriter: 1-800-465-7735 (Service Canada)
Guidance for Preparing Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
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Guidance for Preparing Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
Page 8
Appendix I
Appendix I
SDS Format Requirements
The below format or a similar format that follows the same order and information requirements
is to be used for pest control product SDSs. For further information on SDS content, see
Appendix II, Further Information on Required Content for Safety Data Sheets. Items that are pest
control product SDS specific to Canada are in bold.
Section
1
Identification
2
Hazard
identification
3
Composition/
information on
ingredients
4
First-aid measures
5
Fire-fighting
measures
6
Accidental release
measures
7
Handling and
storage
Information
1) Product name as on the label
2) Pest Control Product Registration Number as on the label
3) Company contact information (for example, Registrant,
Canadian Representative)
4) Product use (for example insecticide, herbicide, fungicide)
5) Emergency phone number (for example, 1-800 number,
CANUTEC)
1) GHS Classification of the active ingredient(s)/end use product(s)
(EPs), manufacturing concentrate(s) (MAs), or Integrated System
Product(s) (ISPs)
2) GHS Label elements including symbol(s) (or description), signal
word, hazard and precautionary statements
3) Any other hazards which do not result in classification or are not
covered by the GHS
1) Chemical identity for each active ingredient and any formulant or
contaminant that is shown on the label:
a) Chemical Abstracts Service (CAS) number and other unique
identifiers
b) name and concentration, as shown on the label
1) Description of necessary measures, subdivided according to the
different routes of exposure, in other words, inhalation, skin and eye
contact and ingestion
2) Most important symptoms/effects, acute and delayed
3) Indication of immediate medical attention and special treatment
needed, if necessary
1) Suitable (and unsuitable) extinguishing media
2) Specific hazards arising from the product (for example, nature of any
hazardous combustion products)
3) Special protective equipment and precautions for fire-fighters
1) Personal precautions, protective equipment and emergency
procedures
2) Environmental precautions
3) Methods and materials for containment and cleaning up
1) Precautions for safe handling
2) Conditions for safe storage, including any incompatibilities
Guidance for Preparing Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
Page 9
Appendix I
Section
8
Exposure controls/
personal protection
9
Physical and
chemical properties
10
Stability and
reactivity
11
Toxicological
information
12
Ecological
information
Information
1) Control parameters: occupational exposure limit values or biological
limit values and the source of that value
2) Appropriate engineering controls
3) Individual protection measures, such as personal protective
equipment
1) Appearance (physical state, colour etc.)
2) Odour
3) Odour threshold
4) pH
5) Melting point/freezing point
6) Initial boiling point and boiling range
7) Flash point
8) Evaporation rate
9) Flammability (solid, gas)
10) Upper/lower flammability or explosive limits
11) Vapour pressure
12) Vapour density
13) Relative density
14) Solubility(ies)
15) Partition coefficient: n-octanol/water (Kow )
16) Auto-ignition temperature
17) Decomposition temperature
18) Viscosity
1) Reactivity
2) Chemical stability
3) Possibility of hazardous reactions
4) Conditions to avoid (for example, static discharge, shock or
vibration)
5) Incompatible materials
6) Hazardous decomposition products
1) Concise but complete and comprehensible description of the various
toxicological (health) effects and the available data used to identify
those effects, including:
a) Information on the likely routes of exposure (inhalation, ingestion,
skin and eye contact)
b) Symptoms related to the physical, chemical and toxicological
characteristics
c) Delayed and immediate effects and also chronic effects from short
and long term exposure
d) Numerical measures of toxicity (such as acute toxicity estimates)
a) Ecotoxicity (aquatic and terrestrial, where available)
b) Persistence and degradability
c) Bioaccumulative potential
d) Mobility in soil
e) Other adverse effects
Guidance for Preparing Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
Page 10
Appendix I
Section
13 Disposal
considerations
14
Transport
information
15
Regulatory
information
16
Other information
Information
Description of waste residues and information on their safe handling
and methods of disposal, including the disposal of any contaminated
packaging
1) UN number
2) UN proper shipping name
3) Transport hazard class(es)
4) Packing group, if applicable
5) Environmental hazards (for example, Marine pollutant (Yes/No))
6) Transport in bulk (according to Annex II of MARPOL 73/78 and the
IBC Code)
7) Special precautions which a user needs to be aware of or comply
with in connection with transport or conveyance either within or
outside their premises
1) Safety, health and environmental regulations specific for the
product in question
2) Label reference
3) Label hazard elements
4) Description of differences between label and SDS
The date of the latest revision of the SDS
Guidance for Preparing Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
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Appendix I
Guidance for Preparing Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
Page 12
Appendix II
Appendix II
Further Information on Required Content for GHSconsistent SDSs
The following descriptions of the SDS’s 16 Sections provide further information on the required
content to be included when completing an SDS for a pest control product in Canada. This
information is adapted from the GHS 5th revised edition, Annex 4, “Guidance on the Preparation
of Safety Data Sheets (SDS)”. 7
Section 1
1
Identification
Identification
1) Product name as indicated on label
2) Pest Control Product Registration Number as indicated on the label
3) Company contact information (for example, registrant, Canadian
representative)
4) Product use (for example, insecticide, herbicide, fungicide)
5) Emergency phone number (for example, 1-800 number, CANUTEC)
In this section the Canadian product name, Pest Control Products Act registration number,
contact information is to be included.
In this section, identify the pest control product (active ingredient(s) / end use product(s) (EPs),
manufacturing concentrate(s) (MAs), or Integrated System Product(s) (ISPs)) and provide the
name of the registrant, recommended uses and the registrant’s contact information, including an
emergency contact.
Product identifier
The identity (for example, name) of the pest control product (product identifier) is to be exactly
as found on the label (that is, the registered pest control product name) and registration number
of the pest control product. If one generic SDS is used to cover several minor variants of an
active ingredient or EP, MA, or ISP, all names and variants are to be listed on the SDS or the
SDS is to clearly delineate the range of substances included.
Other means of identification
In addition, or as an alternative, to the product identifier, the active ingredient or EP, MA, or ISP
may be identified by alternative names, numbers, company product codes, or other unique
identifiers. Provide other names or synonyms by which the active ingredient or EP, MA, or ISP
is labelled or commonly known, if applicable.
7
GHS, Annex 4 at: http://www.unece.org/fileadmin/DAM/trans/danger/publi/ghs/ghs_rev05/English/STSG-AC10-30-Rev5e.pdf
Guidance for Preparing Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
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Appendix II
Recommended use of the chemical and restrictions on use
Provide the recommended or intended use of the active ingredient or EP, MA, or ISP, including a
brief description of what it actually does, for example, insecticide, herbicide, adjuvant, etc.
Restrictions on use are to, as much as possible, be stated including non-statutory
recommendations for use only as directed on the registered product label.
Supplier identifier
The name, full address, and Canadian specific phone number(s) of the supplier of the pest
control product is to be included on the SDS, if different than the registrant.
Emergency phone number
References to emergency information services are to be included in all SDSs. If any restrictions
apply, such as hours of operation (for example, Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m., or 24
hours) or limits on specific types of information (for example, medical emergencies, or
transportation emergencies), this is to be clearly stated. This can be a 1-800 number and/or
CANUTEC.
Section 2
2
Hazard identification
Hazard
identification
1) GHS Classification of the active ingredient(s)/end use product(s) (EPs),
manufacturing concentrate(s) (MAs), or Integrated System Product(s)
(ISPs)
2) GHS Label elements including symbol(s) (or description), signal word,
hazard and precautionary statements
3) Any other hazards which do not result in classification or are not
covered by the GHS
This section describes the hazards of the active ingredient, EP, MA, or ISP and the appropriate
warning information (symbol, signal word, hazard statement(s) and precautionary statement(s))
associated with those hazards.
Classification of the active ingredient or EP, MA, ISP
This sub-section indicates the hazard classification of the active ingredient, EP, MA, or ISP.
If the active ingredient, EP, MA, or ISP is classified in accordance with Parts 2, 3 and/or 4
(physical, health, and environmental hazards) of the GHS, generally the classification is
communicated by providing the appropriate hazard class and category/subcategory to indicate
the hazard (for example, Flammable liquid - Category 1 and Skin corrosion- Category 1A).
What GHS-classification system the pest control product has been classified in should be
indicated, for example: “Classification in accordance with US OSHA regulation HCS2012:”, or
“Classification in accordance with Canada WHMIS 2015 regulation:”, or “Classification in
accordance with the UN GHS Version 5:”.
Guidance for Preparing Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
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Appendix II
However, when classification is differentiated within a hazard class and results in unique hazard
statements, then the classification also reflects that differentiation. For example, the route of
exposure differentiates the acute toxicity classification as follows: Acute toxicity (Oral) Category 1, Acute toxicity (Dermal) - Category 1 and Acute toxicity (Inhalation) - Category 1. If
an active ingredient, EP, MA, or ISP is classified into more than one category in a hazard class
that is differentiated, then all classifications are to be communicated.
Label elements
Based on the classification, provide the appropriate label elements: symbol(s) signal word,
hazard statement(s), and precautionary statement(s).
A pictogram (or hazard symbol) may be provided in a black-and-white picture form.
Alternatively, the name of the symbol, for example, “flame” or “skull and crossbones”, may be
used.
Other hazards which do not result in classification or are not covered by the GHS
Provide information on other hazards that do not result in classification, but may contribute to
the overall hazards of the material; for example, formation of air contaminants during hardening
or processing, dust explosion hazards, suffocation, freezing or environmental effects such as
hazards to soil-dwelling organisms.
The statements “May form explosible dust-air mixture if dispersed” or “May form combustible
dust concentrations in air.” are appropriate in the case of a dust explosion hazard.
Section 3
3
Composition/information on ingredients
Composition/
information
on ingredients
1) Chemical identity for each active ingredient and any formulant or
contaminant that is shown on the label:
a) Chemical Abstracts Service (CAS) number and other unique identifiers
b) name and concentration, as shown on the label
The pest control product ingredient(s) are to be identified in this section. This section may also
be used to provide information on complex active ingredients, EPs, MAs or ISPs.
At a minimum, registrants are expected to disclose the chemical identity of the active
ingredient(s) on SDSs in the same manner as is required for labels (see section 43 of the Pest
Control Products Act).
Formulants and contaminants are typically considered confidential business information (CBI)
and the concentration and identity of these ingredients do not have to be disclosed unless there is
a health concern (for example, allergens, petroleum distillates). These ingredients that are health
concerns are already included on the label and the label statement is to be included in Section 15.
However, registrants may choose to voluntarily list or group ingredients by active ingredients,
formulants (called inerts in the US) and impurities (contaminants) by common or chemical name,
CAS number, and concentration. The intent of ingredient disclosure is to provide as much safety
Guidance for Preparing Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
Page 15
Appendix II
data information as possible to workers and workplaces, especially for those ingredients that
contribute to the GHS hazard classification of the product, without disclosing trade secrets (that
is, CBI).
When applicable, indicate that confidential information about the composition was omitted. In
such cases, the words “trade secret” may replace the CAS number or concentration of an
ingredient. The actual concentration could be replaced by the corresponding cutoff/concentration limits specified in the GHS. For example, “Acute Toxicity (Oral) Category 3:
LD50 > 50 and ≤ 300 mg/kg bw” can replace an acute oral toxicity LD50 falling within that
range. Ingredients that do not contribute to the hazard classification can be grouped together and
identified as ‘other ingredients’. Product composition should add up to 100 percent.
Active Ingredients
The chemical identity of the active ingredients is to be provided. The identity of an active
ingredient can be provided by its common chemical name. The chemical name can be identical
to the product identifier. The “common chemical name” may, for example, be the CAS name or
International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) name, or the International
Organization for Standardization (ISO) name, as applicable. The chemical name can also be
identical to that given on the Health Canada PMRA Statement of Product Specification Form
(SPSF).
Common name(s), synonym(s) of the active ingredients
ISO Common name or accepted name and synonyms are to be provided where appropriate.
CAS number and other unique identifiers for the active ingredients
The CAS registry number provides a unique chemical identification and is to be provided when
available. Other unique identifiers specific to a country or region, such as the European
Community (EC) number can be added.
Identify any impurities and/or stabilizing additives, which are themselves classified and which
contribute to the classification of the substance.
EPs, MAs, and ISPs
For EPs, MAs or ISPs, provide the chemical identity and identification number (for example,
CAS number, or EC number) unless they are trade secrets or CBI. However, EPs, MAs or ISPs,
which are hazardous to health or the environment, within the meaning of the GHS, and are
present above their GHS cut-off levels are to have the hazards indicated on the SDS. Hazards
associated with EPs, MAs, or ISPs, as the GHS classification determines, have to be presented
on the SDS even if the identity and/or concentration of certain ingredients are protected as CBI.
Registrants may choose to list all ingredients, including non-hazardous ingredients.
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The concentrations of the ingredients for EPs, MAs, or ISPs are to be described as: (a) exact
percentages in descending order by mass or volume; or (b) range of percentages in descending
order by mass or volume.
When using a proportion range, the health and environmental hazard effects are to describe the
effects of the most hazardous concentration (usually the highest concentration) of each
ingredient, provided that the effects of the EPs, MAs, or ISPs as a whole are not available. For
example, component A is present at 10-20% of the total composition of a product. The acute
toxicity (oral) classification of component A at <15% is Category 4 and at 15-50% is Category 3.
Therefore, since component A could be present at 20% of the total composition, the
classification of component A would be acute toxicity (oral) Category 3.
The “proportion range” refers to the concentration or percentage range of the ingredient in the
EPs, MAs, or ISPs.
Section 4
4
First-aid
measures
First-aid measures
1) Description of necessary measures, subdivided according to the
different routes of exposure, in other words, inhalation, skin and eye
contact and ingestion
2) Most important symptoms/effects, acute and delayed
3) Indication of immediate medical attention and special treatment
needed, if necessary
This section describes the initial care that should be given to an individual who has been exposed
to the product. This initial care is expected to be without the use of sophisticated equipment and
without a wide selection of medications available. If medical attention is required, the
instructions are to state this, including its urgency. It may be useful to provide information on the
immediate effects, by route of exposure, and indicate the immediate treatment, followed by
possible delayed effects with specific medical surveillance required.
Description of necessary first-aid measures
Provide first-aid instructions by relevant routes of exposure. Use sub-headings to indicate the
procedure for each route (for example, inhalation, skin, eye and ingestion). Describe expected
immediate and delayed symptoms.
Provide advice whether: (a) immediate medical attention is required and if delayed effects can be
expected after exposure; (b) movement of the exposed individual from the area to fresh air is
recommended; (c) removal and handling of clothing and shoes from the individual is
recommended; and (d) PPE for first-aid responders is recommended.
Most important symptoms/effects, acute and delayed
Provide information on the most important symptoms/effects, acute and delayed, from exposure.
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Indication of immediate medical attention and special treatment needed, if necessary.
Where appropriate, provide information on clinical testing and medical monitoring for delayed
effects, specific details on antidotes (where they are known) and contraindications.
Section 5
5
Fire-fighting measures
Fire-fighting
measures
1) Suitable (and unsuitable) extinguishing media
2) Specific hazards arising from the product (e.g. nature of any hazardous
combustion products)
3) Special protective equipment and precautions for fire-fighters
This section covers the requirements for fighting a fire caused by the active ingredient or EP,
MA, or ISP or arising in its vicinity.
Suitable extinguishing media
Provide information on the appropriate extinguishing media. In addition, indicate whether any
extinguishing media are inappropriate for a particular situation involving the active ingredient or
EP, MA, or ISP (for example, avoid high pressure media that could cause the formation of a
potentially explosible dust-air mixture).
Specific hazards arising from the product
Provide advice on specific hazards that may arise from the product, such as hazardous
combustion products that form when the active ingredient or EP, MA, or ISP burns. For
example: (a) “may produce toxic fumes of carbon monoxide if burning”; or (b) “produces oxides
of sulphur and nitrogen on combustion”.
Special protective actions for fire-fighters
Provide advice on any protective actions to be taken during fire-fighting. For example, “keep
containers cool with water spray”.
Section 6
6
Accidental release measures
Accidental
release
measures
1) Personal precautions, protective equipment and emergency procedures
2) Environmental precautions
3) Methods and materials for containment and cleaning up
This section recommends the appropriate response to spills, leaks, or releases in order to prevent
or minimize the adverse effects on persons, property, and the environment. The section should
distinguish between responses for large and small spills where the spill volume has a significant
impact on the hazard. The procedures for containment and recovery may indicate that different
practices are required for large and small spills.
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Personal precautions, protective equipment and emergency procedures
For non-emergency personnel
Provide advice related to accidental spills and release of the active ingredient or EP, MA, or ISP
such as: (a) the wearing of suitable protective equipment (including personal protective
equipment, see Section 8 of the SDS) to prevent any contamination of skin, eyes and personal
clothing; (b) removal of ignition sources and provision of sufficient ventilation; and (c)
emergency procedures such as the necessity to evacuate the danger area or to consult an expert.
For emergency responders
Provide advice related to suitable fabric for personal protective clothing (for example:
“appropriate: butylene; not appropriate: polyvinyl chloride (PVC)”).
Environmental precautions
Provide advice on any environmental precautions related to accidental spills and release of the
active ingredient or EP, MA, or ISP, such as keeping it away from drains, surface and ground
water.
Methods and materials for containment and cleaning up
Provide appropriate advice on how to contain and clean up a spill. Appropriate containment
techniques may include: (a) bunding, covering of drains; and (b) capping procedures (that is,
providing a cover or protection (to prevent damage or spillage)). Note that bunding is a system to
contain liquids in the event of a leak or spillage from tanks or pipe work that can capture well in
excess of the volume of liquids held, for example, an embankment. Bunded areas are to drain to
a capture tank with facilities for water/oil separation.
Appropriate clean-up procedures may make use of: (a) neutralization techniques; (b)
decontamination techniques; (c) adsorbent materials; (d) cleaning techniques; (e) vacuuming
techniques; and (f) equipment required for containment/clean up (include the use of non-sparking
tools and equipment where applicable).
Provide any other issues relating to spills and releases. For example, include advice on any
inappropriate containment or clean-up techniques.
Section 7
7
Handling and storage
Handling and
storage
1) Precautions for safe handling
2) Conditions for safe storage, including any incompatibilities
This section provides guidance on safe handling practices that minimize the potential hazards to
people, property, and the environment from the active ingredient, EP, MA, or ISP. The section
should emphasize precautions that are appropriate to the intended use and to the unique
properties of the active ingredient, EP, MA, or ISP.
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Precautions for safe handling
Provide advice that: (a) allows safe handling of the active ingredient, EP, MA, or ISP; (b)
prevents handling of incompatible active ingredient, EP, MA, or ISP; (c) draws attention to
operations and conditions that create new risks by altering the properties of the active ingredient,
EP, MA, or ISP, and to appropriate countermeasures; and (d) minimizes the release of the active
ingredient, EP, MA, or ISP to the environment.
It is good practice to provide advice on general hygiene. For example: (a) “eating, drinking and
smoking in work areas is prohibited”; (b) “wash hands after use”; and (c) “remove contaminated
clothing and protective equipment before entering eating areas”.
Conditions for safe storage, including any incompatibilities
Ensure to provide advice consistent with the physical and chemical properties detailed in Section
9 (Physical and chemical properties) of the SDS. Where relevant, specify storage requirements as
related to:
(a) avoiding (i) explosive atmospheres, (ii) corrosive conditions, (iii) flammability hazards, (iv)
incompatible active ingredient, EP, MA, or ISP, (v) evaporative conditions, and (vi) potential
ignition sources (including electrical equipment);
(b) controlling the effects of (i) weather conditions, (ii) ambient pressure, (iii) temperature, (iv)
sunlight, (v) humidity, and (vi) vibration.
(c) maintaining the integrity of the active ingredient, EP, MA, or ISP by the use of (i) stabilizers,
(ii) anti-oxidants, or (iii) preservatives.
(d) other issues, including: (i) ventilation requirements, (ii) specific designs for storage
rooms/vessels, (iii) quantity limits under storage conditions (if relevant), and (iv) packaging
compatibilities.
Section 8
8
Exposure controls/personal protection
Exposure
controls/
personal
protection
1) Control parameters: occupational exposure limit values or biological
limit values and the source of that value
2) Appropriate engineering controls
3) Individual protection measures, such as personal protective equipment
In this document, the term “occupational exposure limit(s)” refers to limits in workplace air or
biological limit values; and “exposure control” refers to the specific protection and prevention
measures available during pest control product use to minimize worker and environmental
exposure. The term “control banding” is a system used to assess and manage workplace risks. It
refers to a process that matches an exposure control measure (ventilation, engineering controls,
containment, etc.) to a range or “band” of hazards and exposures (skin/eye irritant, very toxic,
carcinogenic, high potential of exposure, etc.). Engineering control measures needed to minimize
exposure to, and risks associated with the hazards of, the active ingredient, EP, MA, or ISP are to
be included in this section.
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Control parameters
Where these are available, list the occupational exposure limits (limits in workplace air or
biological limit values), including notations, for an active ingredient and for each of the
ingredients of an EP, MA, or ISP. If air contaminants are formed when using the active
ingredient, EP, MA, or ISP as intended, available occupational exposure limits for these are to
also be listed. If an occupational exposure limit exists for the province or region in which the
SDS is being supplied, this is to be listed. The source of the occupational exposure limit is to be
stated on the SDS. When listing occupational exposure limits, the chemical identity as specified
in Section 3 (Composition/Information on ingredients) of the SDS is to be used.
Where these are available, list the biological limit values, including notations, for an active
ingredient and for each of the ingredients of an EP, MA, or ISP. The source of the biological
limit value is to be stated on the SDS; wherever possible, the biological limit value is to be
related to the provinces or regions in which the SDS is being supplied. When listing biological
limit values, use the chemical identity as specified in Section 3 of the SDS.
Where a control banding approach is recommended for providing protection in relation to
specific uses, sufficient detail is to be given to enable effective risk management. The context
and limitations of the specific control banding recommendation is to be made clear.
Appropriate engineering controls
Exposure control measures are to relate to the intended modes of use of the active ingredient, EP,
MA, or ISP. Sufficient information is to be provided to enable appropriate risk assessment.
Indicate when special engineering controls are necessary and specify which type. Examples
include: “applicators must be in fully enclosed cabs or if not in fully enclosed cabs, applicators
must wear additional personal protective equipment and clothing.”; “observe a restricted-entry
interval of 12 hours after application for all post application activities”; “calibration tubes and
instructions are available from your supplier”; “if application of the fumigant is performed from
within the structure to be fumigated, approved respiratory protection is required to be worn by all
personnel inside the structure”; and “a product must be used in a closed transfer system only”.
The information provided here is to complement that provided under Section 7 (Handling and
storage) of the SDS.
Individual protection measures, such as personal protective equipment
Consistent with good occupational hygiene practices, PPE is to be used in conjunction with other
control measures, including engineering controls, ventilation and isolation. (See also Section 5 of
the SDS on fire-fighting measures for specific fire/chemical PPE advice.)
Identify the PPE needed to minimize the potential for illness or injury due to exposure from the
active ingredient, EP, MA, or ISP, including:
(a) Eye/face protection: specify the type of eye protection and/or face shield required, based on
the hazard of the active ingredient, EP, MA, or ISP and potential for contact;
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(b) Skin protection: specify the protective equipment to be worn (for example, type of gloves,
boots, footwear, bodysuit, coveralls, or clothing) based on the hazards associated with the active
ingredient, EP, MA, or ISP and the potential for contact;
(c) Respiratory protection: specify appropriate types of respiratory protection based on the
hazard and potential for exposure, including air-purifying respirators and the proper purifying
element (cartridge or canister) or breathing apparatus; and
(d) Thermal hazards: when specifying protective equipment to be worn for materials that
represent a thermal hazard, special consideration is to be given to the construction of the PPE.
Special requirements may exist for gloves or other protective clothing to prevent skin, eye or
lung exposure. Where relevant, this type of PPE is to be clearly stated. For example, “polyvinyl
chloride (PVC) gloves” or “nitrile rubber gloves”, and thickness and breakthrough time of the
glove material.
Section 9
9
Physical and chemical properties 8
Physical
and
chemical
properties
1) Appearance (physical state, colour
etc.)
2) Odour
3) Odour threshold
4) pH
5) Melting point/freezing point
6) Initial boiling point and boiling
range
7) Flash point
8) Evaporation rate
9) Flammability (solid, gas)
10) Upper/lower flammability or
explosive limits
11) Vapour pressure
12) Vapour density
13) Relative density
14) Solubility(ies)
15) Partition coefficient: noctanol/water (log Kow)
16) Auto-ignition temperature
17) Decomposition temperature
18) Viscosity
Describe the empirical data of the active ingredient, EP, MA, or ISP (if possible) in this section.
In the case of an EP, MA, or ISP, the entries should clearly indicate to which ingredient the data
apply, unless it is valid for the whole EP, MA, or ISP. The data included in this sub-section
should apply to the active ingredient, EP, MA, or ISP.
Clearly identify the following properties and specify appropriate units of measure and/or
reference conditions where appropriate. If relevant for the interpretation of the numeric value,
the method of determination is to also be provided (for flash point, open-cup/closed-cup, etc.):
appearance (physical state, colour, etc.); odour; odour threshold; pH; melting point/freezing
point; initial boiling point and boiling range; flash point; evaporation rate; flammability (solid,
gas); upper/lower flammability or explosive limits; vapour pressure; vapour density; relative
density; solubility(ies); partition coefficient: n-octanol/water; auto-ignition temperature;
decomposition temperature; and viscosity.
8
The GHS 6th revised edition provides further information on physical and chemical properties and can be
found at: http://www.unece.org/trans/danger/publi/ghs/ghs_rev06/06files_e.html#c38156.
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If specific characteristics do not apply or are not available, they are to still be listed on the SDS
with a statement that information for the property is not applicable or not available. Other
physical or chemical parameters in addition to those included above, may also be included in this
section of the SDS.
Property
Physical state
Colour
Odour
pH
Remarks / Guidance
Standard conditions are generally used for gas, liquid, and solid states.
Indicate the colour of the active ingredient, EP, MA or ISP.
Give a qualitative description of the odour if it is well-known or described
in literature.
If available indicate the odour threshold.
Not applicable to gases.
Applicable to aqueous liquids and solutions (the pH is linked to aqueous
media by definition; measurements carried out in other media do not give
the pH).
Indicate the concentration of the test substance in water.
Melting point /
Freezing Point
Where the pH is ≤ 2 or ≥ 11.5, see Table A4.3.9.3 of the GHS 6th revised
edition for information on acid/alkaline reserve
Not applicable to gases.
At standard pressure.
Indicate up to which temperature no melting point was observed in the
case the melting point is above the measuring range of the method.
Indicate if decomposition or sublimation occurs prior to or during
melting.
For waxes and pastes the softening point / range may be indicated instead.
Indicate if it is technically not possible to determine the melting point /
freezing point.
Boiling point or
Generally at standard pressure (a boiling point at lower pressure might be
initial boiling point indicated in case initial boiling point the boiling point is very high or
and boiling range
decomposition occurs before boiling).
Indicate up to which temperature no boiling point was observed in case
the boiling point is above the measuring range of the method.
Indicate if decomposition occurs prior to or during boiling.
For mixtures indicate if it is technically not possible to determine the
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Property
Flash point
Remarks / Guidance
boiling point or range; in that case indicate also the boiling point of the
lowest boiling ingredient.
Not applicable to gases, aerosols and solids.
For information on test methods etc., see Chapter 2.6, paragraph 2.6.4.2
of the GHS 6th Revised Edition.
For EP, MA, ISPs:
Evaporation rate
Flammability
(solid, gas)
Indicate a value for the mixture itself if available, otherwise indicate the
flash point(s) of those substances with the lowest flash point(s) as these
are generally the main contributing ones.
Applicable to liquids and solids.
Can be given in comparison to other chemicals, such as butyl acetate,
which evaporate fairly quickly. For example, the rate might be given as
"0.5 (butyl acetate=1), or given as greater or less than 1.
Applicable to gases, liquids and solids.
Indicate whether the substance or mixture is ignitable (capable of catching
on fire or being set on fire, even if not classified for flammability).
If available and appropriate, further information may be indicated in
addition, for example, whether the effect of ignition is other than a normal
combustion (for example, an explosion), or ignitability under nonstandard conditions.
Upper and lower
flammability /
explosive limits
More specific information on the flammability may be indicated based on
the respective hazard classification in accordance with Table A4.3.9.2 of
the GHS 6th Revised Edition.
Not applicable to solids.
For flammable liquids indicate at least the lower explosion limit:
• if the flash point is approximately > -25 °C, it might be not possible to
determine the upper explosion limit at standard temperature; in that case it
is recommended to indicate the upper explosion limit at elevated
temperature,
• if the flash point is > +20 °C the same holds for both the lower and
upper explosion limit.
Note: Depending on the region of the world the term "explosion limit " or
''flammability limit" is used, but is supposed to mean the same.
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Property
Vapour pressure
Remarks / Guidance
Generally at standard temperature.
Indicate the vapour pressure at 50 °C for volatile fluids in addition (in
order to enable distinction between gases and liquids based on the
definitions in Chapter 1.2).
In cases where one SDS is used to cover variants of a liquid mixture or
liquefied gas mixture indicate a range for the vapour pressure.
For liquid mixtures or liquefied gas mixtures, indicate a range for the
vapour pressure or at least the vapour pressure of the most volatile
ingredient(s) where the vapour pressure of the mixture is predominantly
determined by this/these ingredient(s).
For liquid mixtures or liquefied gas mixtures, the vapour pressure may be
calculated using the activity coefficients of the ingredients.
Vapour density
The saturated vapour concentration (SVC) may be indicated in addition.
Applicable to gases and liquids only.
For gases, indicate the relative density of the gas based on air at 20°C as
reference (=MW/29).
For liquids, indicate the relative vapour density based on air at 20°C as
reference (=MW/29).
For liquids, the relative density of the vapour/air-mixture at 20°C (air = 1)
may be indicated in addition.
Relative density or
specific gravity
Where MW is the molecular weight.
Applicable to liquids and solids only.
Generally at standard conditions.
Indicate as appropriate:
• the absolute density; and/or
• the relative density based on water at 4 °C as reference (sometimes also
called the specific gravity).
A range may be indicated in cases where variations in density are
possible, for example, due to batch manufacture, or where one SDS is
used to cover several variants of an active ingredient or EP, MA, ISP.
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Property
Solubility
Remarks / Guidance
NOTE: For clarity, the SDS should indicate if absolute density (indicate
units) and/or relative density (no units) is being reported.
Generally at standard temperature.
Indicate the solubility in water.
The solubility in other (non-polar) solvents may also be included.
Partition
coefficient: noctanol/water
(Kow)
For mixtures, indicate if it is fully or only partially soluble in or miscible
with water or other solvent.
Not applicable to inorganic and ionic liquids.
Generally not applicable to EPs, MAs, and ISPs.
May be calculated (using QSAR - Quantitative structure-activity
relationship).
Auto-ignition
temperature
Indicate whether the value is based on testing or on calculation.
Applicable to gases and liquids only.
For EPs, MAs, and ISPs:
Decomposition
temperature
Indicate a value for the mixture itself if available, otherwise indicate the
auto-ignition temperature(s) of those ingredients with the lowest autoignition temperature(s).
Applicable to self-reactive substance and mixtures and organic peroxides
and other substances and mixtures which may decompose.
Indicate:
• the SADT (self-accelerating decomposition temperature), together with
the volume to which it applies; or
• the decomposition onset temperature (see also section 20.3.3.3 of the
Manual of Tests and Criteria 9).
Indicate whether the temperature given is the SADT or the decomposition
onset temperature.
If no decomposition was observed, indicate up to which temperature no
9
See the UN Manual of Tests and Criteria, Sixth revised edition at: http://www.unece.org/trans/areas-ofwork/dangerous-goods/legal-instruments-and-recommendations/un-manual-of-tests-and-criteria/rev6files.html
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Property
Viscosity
Remarks / Guidance
decomposition was observed, for example, as "no decomposition
observed up to x °C/°F''.
Kinematic viscosity:
Applicable to liquids only.
Use preferably mm2/s as unit (as the classification criteria for the hazard
class aspiration hazard are based on this unit).
The dynamic viscosity may be indicated in addition. The kinematic
viscosity is linked to the dynamic viscosity by the density:
Kinematic viscosity (mm2/s) = Dynamic viscosity (mPa·s) / Density (g /
cm3).
For non-Newtonian liquids, indicate thixotropic or rheopexic behaviour.
Section 10 Stability and reactivity
10
Stability and
reactivity
1) Reactivity
2) Chemical stability
3) Possibility of hazardous reactions
4) Conditions to avoid (for example, static discharge, shock or vibration)
5) Incompatible materials
6) Hazardous decomposition products
Reactivity
Describe the reactivity hazards of the active ingredient, EP, MA, or ISP in this section. Provide
specific test data for the active ingredient, EP, MA, or ISP as a whole, where available. However,
the information may also be based on general data for the class or family of chemical if such data
adequately represents the anticipated hazard of the active ingredient or EPs, MAs, and ISPs.
If data for EP, MA, or ISP are not available, ingredient data is to be provided. In determining
incompatibility, consider the substances, containers and contaminants that the active ingredient,
EP, MA, or ISP might be exposed to during transportation, storage and use.
Chemical stability
Indicate if the active ingredient, EP, MA, or ISP is stable or unstable under normal ambient and
anticipated storage and handling conditions of temperature and pressure. Describe any stabilizers
or preservatives that are, or may need to be, used to maintain the product. Indicate the safety
significance of any change in the physical appearance of the product.
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Possibility of hazardous reactions
If relevant, state if the active ingredient, EP, MA, or ISP will react or polymerize, releasing
excess pressure or heat, creating other hazardous conditions. Describe under what conditions the
hazardous reactions may occur.
Conditions to avoid
A list of conditions to avoid such as heat, pressure, shock, static discharge, vibrations, and other
physical stresses that might result in a hazardous situation is to be included.
Incompatible materials
A list of the classes of chemicals, or specific substances, with which the active ingredient, EP,
MA, or ISP could react to produce a hazardous situation (for example, explosion, release of toxic
or flammable materials, liberation of excessive heat) is to be included.
Hazardous decomposition products
List known and reasonably anticipated hazardous decomposition products produced as a result of
use, storage and heating. Hazardous combustion products are to be included in section 5 (Firefighting measures) of the SDS.
Section 11 Toxicological information
11
Toxicological
information
1) Concise but complete and comprehensible description of the various
toxicological (health) effects and the available data used to identify those
effects, including:
a) Information on the likely routes of exposure (inhalation, ingestion, skin
and eye contact)
b) Symptoms related to the physical, chemical and toxicological
characteristics
c) Delayed and immediate effects and also chronic effects from short and
long term exposure
d) Numerical measures of toxicity (such as acute toxicity estimates)
This section is used primarily by medical professionals, occupational health and safety
professionals and toxicologists. A concise but complete and comprehensible description of the
various toxicological (health) effects, and the available data used to identify those effects, is to
be provided. Under GHS classification, the relevant hazards, for which data are to be provided,
are: acute toxicity; skin corrosion/irritation; serious eye damage/irritation; respiratory or skin
sensitization; germ cell mutagenicity; carcinogenicity; reproductive toxicity; specific target
organ toxicity (STOT) -single exposure; STOT-repeated exposure; and aspiration hazard.
Provide information on these hazards when applicable and available. Also provide information
on any other hazards which do not result in classification or are not covered by the GHS. The
health effects included in the SDS are to be consistent with those described in the studies used
for the classification of the active ingredient, EP, MA, or ISP.
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Where there is a substantial amount of test data on the active ingredient, EP, MA, or ISP, it may
be desirable to summarize results (for example, by route of exposure).
The data included in this sub-section are to apply to the active ingredients or EP, MA, or ISP as
used. The toxicological data are to describe the EP, MA, or ISP. If that information is not
available, the classification under GHS and the toxicological properties of the hazardous
ingredients are to be provided and clearly identify the ingredient to which the information
relates. General statements such as “Toxic” with no supporting data or “Safe if properly used”
are not acceptable, as they may be misleading and do not provide a description of health effects.
Phrases such as “not applicable”, “not relevant”, or leaving blank spaces in the health effects
section can lead to confusion and misunderstanding and are to not be used unless the explanation
is provided (for example, “not applicable (gas)”. For health effects where information is not
available, this is to be clearly stated. Health effects are to be described accurately and relevant
distinctions made. For example, allergic contact dermatitis and irritant contact dermatitis are to
be distinguished from each other. If data for any of these hazards are not available, they are to
still be listed on the SDS with a statement that data are not available.
Also provide information on the relevant negative data. If data are available showing that the
active ingredient, EP, MA, or ISP does not meet the criteria for classification, it is to be stated on
the SDS that the active ingredient, EP, MA, or ISP has been evaluated and based on available
data, does not meet the classification criteria. Additionally, if an active ingredient, EP, MA, or
ISP is found to be not classified for other reasons, for example, due to technical impossibility to
obtain data, or inconclusive data, this is to be clearly stated on the SDS.
Information on the likely routes of exposure
Provide information on the likely routes of exposure of the active ingredient, EP, MA, or ISP,
that is, through ingestion (swallowing), inhalation or skin/eye contact.
Symptoms related to the physical, chemical and toxicological characteristics
Describe the potential adverse health effects and symptoms associated with exposure to the
active ingredients, EP, MA, or ISP and its ingredients or known by-products. Provide
information on the symptoms related to the physical, chemical and toxicological characteristics
of the active ingredients, EP, MA, or ISP following exposure related to the intended uses.
Describe the first symptoms at the lowest exposures through to the consequences of severe
exposure; for example, “headaches and dizziness may occur, proceeding to fainting or
unconsciousness; large doses may result in coma and death”.
Delayed and immediate effects and also chronic effects from short and long term exposure
Provide information on whether delayed or immediate effects can be expected after short or long
term exposure. Also provide information on acute and chronic health effects relating to human
exposure to the active ingredients, EP, MA, or ISP. Where human data are not available, animal
data is to be summarised and the species clearly identified. It is to be indicated in the SDS
whether toxicological data is based on human or animal data.
Guidance for Preparing Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
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Appendix II
Numerical measures of toxicity (such as acute toxicity estimates)
Provide information on the dose, concentration or conditions of exposure that may cause adverse
health effects. Where appropriate, doses are to be linked to symptoms and effects, including the
period of exposure likely to cause harm. For example, the acute oral LD50 (lethal dose at 50%)
for product “X” is “1250” mg/kg bw (milligrams/kilogram of body weight).
Where specific chemical data are not available
It may not always be possible to obtain information on the hazards of an active ingredient, EP,
MA, or ISP. In cases where data on the specific active ingredients, EP, MA, or ISP are not
available, data on the chemical class, if appropriate, may be used. Where generic data are used or
where data are not available, this is to be stated clearly in the SDS.
EP, MA, or ISP
If an EP, MA, or ISP has not been tested for its health effects as a whole then information on
each ingredient listed is to be provided and the EP, MA, or ISP is to be classified using the
processes that are described in the GHS.
EP, MA, or ISP versus ingredient information
Ingredients may interact with each other in the body resulting in different rates of absorption,
metabolism and excretion. As a result, the overall toxicity of the EP, MA, or ISP may be
different from its ingredients. Information on interactions are to be included if relevant and
readily available.
It is necessary to consider whether the concentration of each ingredient is sufficient to contribute
to the overall health effects of the EP, MA, or ISP. The information on toxic effects is to be
presented for each ingredient, except:
a) if the information is duplicated it is not necessary to list this more than once. For
example, if two ingredients both cause vomiting and diarrhea, it is not necessary to list
this twice. Overall, the EP, MA, or ISP is described as causing vomiting and diarrhea;
b) if it is unlikely that these effects will occur at the concentrations present. For example,
when a mild irritant is diluted in a non-irritating solution, there comes a point where the
overall EP, MA, or ISP will be unlikely to cause irritation;
c) predicting the interactions between ingredients is extremely difficult, and where
information on interactions is not available, assumptions are to not be made and instead
the health effects of each ingredient are to be listed separately.
Other information
Other relevant information on adverse health effects are to be included even when not required
by the GHS classification criteria.
Guidance for Preparing Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
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Appendix II
Section 12 Ecological information
12
Ecological
information
a) Ecotoxicity (aquatic and terrestrial, where available)
b) Persistence and degradability
c) Bioaccumulative potential
d) Mobility in soil
e) Other adverse effects
The information in this section should be included if it is available.
The information that is to be provided in this section is to enable evaluation of the environmental
impact of the active ingredient(s), EP, MA, or ISP - if it were released to the environment. This
information can assist in handling spills, and evaluating waste treatment practices, control of
release, accidental release measures, and transport.
GHS environmental information
A concise but complete and comprehensible description of the various eco-toxicological
(environment) properties, and the available data used to identify those properties, is to be
provided. The basic properties, for which data is to be provided, are: ecotoxicity; persistence and
degradability; bio-accumulative potential; mobility in soil; and other adverse effects. These
properties are to always be listed on the SDS. Species, media, units, test duration and test
conditions are to be clearly indicated. If data for any of these properties are not available, they
are to still be listed on the SDS with a statement that data are not available.
Some eco-toxicological properties are active ingredient(s) specific (bioaccumulation, persistence
and degradability). The information is to therefore be given, where available and appropriate, for
each relevant ingredient of the EP, MA, or ISP (those which are required to be listed in Section 3
of the SDS).
Provide also a short summary of the data given in relation to the hazard classification criteria.
Where data are not available for classification, this is to be clearly stated on the SDS for each
basic property concerned. Additionally, if data are available showing that the active ingredients,
EP, MA, or ISP does not meet the criteria for classification, it is to be stated on the SDS that the
active ingredients, EP, MA, or ISP has been evaluated and, based on available data, does not
meet the classification criteria. Additionally, if an active ingredients, EP, MA, or ISP is found to
be not classified for other reasons, for example, due to technical impossibility to obtain the data,
or inconclusive data, this is to be clearly stated on the SDS.
Ecotoxicity
Information on ecotoxicity can be provided using data from tests performed on aquatic and/or
terrestrial organisms. This is to include relevant available data on both acute and chronic aquatic
toxicity for fish, crustaceans, algae and other aquatic plants. In addition, ecotoxicity data on other
organisms (including soil micro-and macro-organisms) such as birds, bees and plants, is to be
included when available. Where the active ingredients, EP, MA, or ISP has inhibitory effects on
the activity of micro-organisms, the possible impact on sewage treatment plants is to be
mentioned.
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Appendix II
Persistence and degradability
Persistence and degradability is the potential for the active ingredients or the appropriate
constituents of an EP, MA, or ISP to degrade in the environment, either through biodegradation
or other processes, such as oxidation or hydrolysis. Test results relevant to assess persistence and
degradability are to be given where available.
If degradation half-lives are quoted it is to be indicated whether these half-lives refer to abiotic
transformation (for example, hydrolysis, phototransformation) or biotransformation. The
potential of the active ingredients or certain constituents of an EP, MA, or ISP to degrade in
sewage treatment plants is to also be mentioned.
Bio-accumulative potential
Bioaccumulation is the potential for the active ingredients or certain constituents of an EP, MA,
or ISP to accumulate in biota and, possibly, pass through the food chain. Test results relevant to
assess the bio-accumulative potential are to be given. This is to include reference to the octanolwater partition coefficient (Kow) and bio-concentration factor (BCF), if available.
Mobility in soil
Mobility in soil is the potential of active ingredients or the constituents of the EP, MA, or ISP, if
released to the environment, leach to groundwater or runoff from the site of release. The
potential for mobility in soil is to be given where available. Information on mobility can be
determined from relevant mobility data such as adsorption studies or leaching studies. Leaching
and mobility can be predicted from models.
Where real data on the active ingredients, EP, MA, or ISP is available this data is to take
precedence over models and predictions.
Other adverse effects
Information on any other adverse effects to the environment is to be included where available,
such as ozone depletion potential, photochemical ozone creation potential, endocrine disrupting
potential and/or global warming potential.
Section 13 Disposal considerations
13
Disposal
considerations
Description of waste residues and information on their safe handling and
methods of disposal, including the disposal of any contaminated
packaging
The information in this section should be included if it is available.
Disposal methods
Provide information for proper disposal, recycling or reclamation of the active ingredients, EP,
MA, or ISP and/or its container to assist in the determination of safe and environmentally
Guidance for Preparing Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
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Appendix II
preferred waste management options, consistent with the requirements of the Pest Control
Products Act. For the safety of persons conducting disposal, recycling or reclamation activities,
please refer to the information in section 8 (exposure controls and personal protection) of the
SDS. This includes disposal information to:
a)
b)
c)
d)
Specify disposal containers and methods;
Discuss physical/chemical properties that may affect disposal options;
Discourage sewage disposal; and
Where appropriate, identify any special precautions for incineration or landfill.
Section 14 Transport information
14
Transport
information
1) UN number
2) UN proper shipping name
3) Transport hazard class(es)
4) Packing group, if applicable
5) Environmental hazards (for example, Marine pollutant (Yes/No))
6) Transport in bulk (according to Annex II of MARPOL 73/78 and the
IBC Code)
7) Special precautions which a user needs to be aware of or comply with
in connection with transport or conveyance either within or outside their
premises
The information in this section should be included if it is available.
This section provides basic GHS classification information for the transporting/shipment of a
hazardous active ingredient(s), EP, MA, or ISP by road, rail, sea or air. Where information is not
available or relevant this is to be stated.
United Nations (UN) Number
Provide the UN Number (that is, the four figure identification number of the substance or article)
from the UN Model Regulations 4. 10 Provide the Canadian specific Transportation of Dangerous
Goods (TDG) information here and/or in Section 15.
UN Proper Shipping Name
Provide the UN proper shipping name from the UN Model Regulations. For active ingredients,
EP, MA, or ISP the UN proper shipping name is to be provided in this sub-section if it has not
appeared as the Product identifier or national or regional identifiers.
10
See: http://www.unece.org/trans/danger/publi/unrec/rev13/13nature_e.html
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Appendix II
Transport hazard class (es)
Provide the transport class (and subsidiary risks) assigned to the active ingredients, EP, MA, or
ISP according to the most predominant hazard that they present in accordance with the UN
Model Regulations.
Packing group, if applicable
Provide the packing group number from the UN Model Regulations, if applicable. The packing
group number is assigned to certain active ingredients in accordance with their degree of hazard.
Environmental hazards
Indicate whether the active ingredients, EP, MA, or ISP is a known marine pollutant according to
the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code, and if so, whether it is a “marine
pollutant” or a “severe marine pollutant”.
Special precautions for user
Provide information on any special precautions that a user needs to be aware of, or needs to
comply with in connection with transport.
Transport in bulk according to Annex II of UN the International Convention for the
Prevention of Pollution from Ships, 1973, as modified by the Protocol of 1978 (MARPOL
73/78) and the International Code for the Construction and Equipment of Ships carrying
Dangerous Chemicals in Bulk (IBC Code). 11
This sub-section only applies when cargoes are intended to be carried in bulk according to the
following International Maritime Organization (IMO) instruments: Annex II of MARPOL 73/78
and the IBC Code.
Provide the product name as required by the shipment document and in accordance with the
name used in the lists of product names given in Chapters 17 or 18 of the IBC Code or the latest
edition of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), Marine Environment Protection
Committee (MEPC) MEPC.2/Circular. Indicate ship type required and pollution category.
11
See: http://www.imo.org/en/Publications/Pages/Home.aspx
Guidance for Preparing Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
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Appendix II
Section 15 Regulatory information
15
Regulatory
information
1) Safety, health and environmental regulations specific for the product in
question
2) Label reference
3) Label hazard elements
4) Description of differences between label and SDS
Describe any other regulatory information on the active ingredient, EP, MA, or ISP that is not
provided elsewhere in the SDS (for example whether the active ingredient(s), EP, MA, or ISP is
subject to the Montreal Protocol, the Stockholm Convention or the Rotterdam Convention).
Provide the safety, health and environmental regulations specific for the product in
question
Provide relevant national and/or regional information on the regulatory status of the active
ingredient(s), EP, MA, or ISP (including its ingredients) under relevant safety, health and
environmental regulations. This is to include whether the active ingredient(s), EP, MA, or ISP
(including its ingredients) are subject to any prohibitions or restrictions within Canada or
provinces and territories, and/or regions, into which it is being supplied.
Describe any other Canadian specific regulatory information
Registrants are to include the following statement (or similar):
“Read the approved label, authorized under the Pest Control Products Act, prior to using
or handling the pest control product”
Registrants are to include the label hazard communications information, including any
environmental label statements, Canadian container disposal requirements, and a brief
explanation for any differences between that information and the SDS information.
Registrants are to include the following statement (or similar):
“This chemical is a pest control product registered by Health Canada Pest Management
Regulatory Agency and is subject to certain labelling requirements under the Pest
Control Products Act. These requirements differ from the classification criteria and
hazard information required for GHS-consistent safety data sheets. Following is the
hazard information required on the pest control product label:”
If the pest control product contains an allergen, including allergens as formulants as listed on the
List of Pest Control Product Formulants and Contaminants of Health or Environmental
Concern, the allergen label statement is to be also included in this section.
Registrants are to include any other relevant Canadian specific regulatory information applicable
to the product such as any Transportation of Dangerous Goods (TDG) requirements, or
conditions under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act (CEPA).
Guidance for Preparing Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
Page 35
Appendix II
Section 16 Other information
16.
Other
information
The date of the latest revision of the SDS
Provide information relevant to the preparation of the SDS in this section. This is to incorporate
other information that does not belong in sections 1 to 15 of the SDS, including information on
preparation and revision of the SDS such as:
a) the date of preparation of the latest revision of the SDS, when revisions are made to an SDS,
unless it has been indicated elsewhere, clearly indicate where the changes have been made to
the previous version of the SDS. Registrants are to maintain an explanation of the changes
and be willing to provide it upon request; and
b) a key/legend to abbreviations and acronyms used in the SDS; and
c) key literature references and sources for data used to compile the SDS.
Guidance for Preparing Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
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Appendix III
Appendix III PMRA Hazard Class and the Comparable GHS Hazard
Class (or classes)
The following tables compare the hazard classes used for label elements required by the Pest
Control Products Act and Regulations to the corresponding GHS hazard classes and GHS label
communication elements.
The GHS label elements are to be provided in Section 2 of a SDS. It is expected that Section 15
will include the label hazard communication elements and a description of the differences.
Note that the information contained in this Appendix III is not a direct cross-walk from Pest
Control Products Act hazard class to the GHS hazard class. To determine the Pest Control
Products Act hazard class and the GHS hazard class different methods and ranges must be used.
Appendix III is not a substitute for classifying in GHS. For more complete information on
classifying in the GHS see: Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of
Chemicals (GHS), 5th ed. 2013. New York: United Nations.
(http://www.unece.org/trans/danger/publi/ghs/ghs_rev05/05files_e.html)
Comparable crosswalk examples
Example 1: flammable aerosol hazard
A registered pest control product label may indicate flammable aerosol with the signal words
“caution” and “flammable” and use the symbol for caution and flammable.
Using the GHS classification that same product may use the signal word “warning” and hazard
statement “flammable aerosol” and have no symbol.
Example 2: acute oral toxicity
The label of a pest control product that is acutely toxic via the oral route may have the signal
word “Caution” and the hazard statement “Poison” and the accompanying skull and crossbones
symbol contained with the black inverted triangle-shaped border.
Using the GHS classification, that same product may have the signal word “Warning” and the
hazard statement “Harmful if swallowed” accompanied by the exclamation point symbol
contained within the red border in the shape of a square set at a point.
Guidance for Preparing Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
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Appendix III
Summary Table of PMRA Hazard Classes that have label elements, and the Comparable
GHS Hazard Classes
PMRA
Physical hazards:
Flammable Gases
Flammable Aerosols
Flammable Liquids
Gases Under Pressure
Corrosive to Metals
Acute health hazards:
Oral or Dermal
Inhalation (Dusts and Mists)
Skin Corrosion/Irritation
Serious Eye Damage/Eye Irritation
Skin Sensitization
Acute environmental hazards:
Acute Aquatic Toxicity
GHS
Flammable Gases
Flammable Aerosols
Flammable Liquids
Gases Under Pressure
Corrosive to Metals
Oral or Dermal
Inhalation (Vapours, Gases, Dusts and Mists)
Skin Corrosion/Irritation
Serious Eye Damage/Eye Irritation
Skin Sensitization
Acute Aquatic Toxicity
Guidance for Preparing Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
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Appendix III
Criteria for physical hazards
Flammable Gases
Flammable Gases (closest existing classification criteria)
Criteria
Pressurized product: Pressurized product:
Ignition of spray
Ignition of spray
forms a flame
forms a flame
projection of ≥ 45
projection of 15-45
cm or flashback to
cm
the container occurs
Precautionary
Symbols and Signal
Words
Pressurized product:
ignition of the spray
occurs and forms a
flame projection of
< 15 cm
Danger
Warning
Caution
Extremely
Flammable
Flammable
Flammable
Flammable Gases (GHS classification criteria)
Criteria: A gas with a flammable range with air at 20oC and a standard pressure of 101.3
kPa. (GHS Hazard Class: Flammable Gases – Chapter 2.2)
Sub-Criteria:
Category 1: gas that is ignitable Category 2: other gases having a
in a mixture of ≤13% (vol) in
flammable range while mixed in
air, or has a flammable range of air
≥12% points
Symbol
(None)
Signal Word
Hazard Statement
Danger
Extremely flammable gas
Warning
Flammable gas
Guidance for Preparing Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
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Appendix III
Flammable Aerosols
Flammable Aerosols (existing classification criteria)
Criteria
Pressurized product: Pressurized product:
Ignition of spray
Ignition of spray
forms a flame
forms a flame
projection of ≥ 45
projection of 15-45
cm or flashback to
cm
the container occurs
Precautionary
Symbols and Signal
Words
Pressurized product:
ignition of the spray
occurs and forms a
flame projection of
< 15 cm
Danger
Warning
Caution
Extremely
Flammable
Flammable
Flammable
Flammable Aerosols (GHS classification criteria)
Criteria: Aerosol dispenser: non-refillable receptacle containing a gas under pressure with
a release device to eject solid or liquid particles in suspension in gas, as a foam, paste,
powder or liquid or in a gaseous state. (GHS Hazard Class: Flammable Aerosols –
Chapter 2.3)
Sub-Criteria:
Category 1:
Category 2:
≥ 85% flammable components
Ignition distance ≥15 cm (spray
and ∆ Hc ≥ 30 kJ/g, or
aerosol), or ∆ Hc ≥ 20 kJ/g
Ignition distance ≥ 75 cm
(spray aerosol), or
(spray aerosol), or
In the enclosed space ignition
in the foam test, flame height
test, the time equivalent ≤ 300
≥ 20 cm and flame duration ≥ 2
s/m3 or deflagration density ≤
s; or flame height ≥ 4 cm and
300 g/m3 (spray), or
flame duration ≥ 7 s
In the foam test, flame height ≥
4 cm and flame duration
≥2s
Symbol
Signal Word
Hazard Statement
Danger
Extremely flammable aerosol
Warning
Flammable aerosol
Guidance for Preparing Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
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Appendix III
Flammable Liquids
Flammable Liquids (existing classification criteria)
Criteria: Non-pressurized liquids
Sub-Criteria:
flashpoint ≤ -6 oC
flashpoint ≤ 10 oC
Precautionary
Symbols and Signal
Words
flashpoint ≤ 27 oC
Danger
Warning
Caution
Extremely
Flammable
Flammable
Flammable
Flammable Liquids (GHS classification criteria)
Criteria:
Category 1:
Category 2:
Category 3:
Liquid with
Liquid with
Liquid with
flashpoint ≤ 23 flashpoint ≤ 23 flashpoint ≤ 60
o
o
o
C and initial
C
C
boiling point
≤ 35 oC
Symbol
Category 4:
Liquid with
flashpoint ≤ 93
o
C
(None)
Signal Word
Hazard Statement
Danger
Extremely
flammable
liquid and
vapour
Danger
Highly
flammable
liquid and
vapour
Warning
Flammable
liquid and
vapour
Guidance for Preparing Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
Page 41
Warning
Combustible
liquid
Appendix III
Gases Under Pressure
Gases Under Pressure (existing classification criteria)
Criteria
All pressurized products
Precautionary
Symbol and Signal
Word
Caution
Explosive
Gases Under Pressure (GHS classification criteria)
Criteria: Gases contained in a receptacle at a pressure not less than 200 Pa at 20°C or as a
refrigerated liquid. (GHS Hazard Class: Gases Under Pressure – Chapter 2.5)
Sub-Criteria:
Category 1:
Category 2:
Category 3:
Category 4:
Compressed
Liquified Gas Refrigerated
Dissolved Gas
Gas
Liquified Gas
Symbol
Signal Word
Hazard Statement
Warning
Contains gas
under
pressure; may
explode if
heated
Warning
Contains gas
under
pressure; may
explode if
heated
Warning
Contains
refrigerated
gas; may cause
cryogenic
burns or injury
Guidance for Preparing Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
Page 42
Warning
Contains gas
under
pressure; may
explode if
heated
Appendix III
Corrosive to Metals
Corrosive to Metals (existing classification criteria)
Criteria:
≥ 20% organic acid,
5-10% mineral acids
or ≥ 10% mineral
or alkali materials,
acid or alkali
or 5-20% organic
material
acids, or liquids
containing ≥10%
available chlorine,
or pH ≤ 0.5, or pH ≥
13.5
Precautionary
Symbols and Signal
Words
1-5% mineral acids
or alkali materials,
or 1-5% organic
acids, or solids
containing > 1%
available chlorine,
or pH of 0.5-2.5 or
11.5-13.5
Danger
Warning
Caution
Corrosive
Corrosive
Corrosive
Corrosive to Metals (GHS classification criteria)
Criteria: Chemical action that materially damages or destroys metals with a corrosion rate
on steel or aluminum surfaces exceeding 6.25 mm per year at a test temperature of 55 °C.
(GHS Hazard Class: Corrosive to Metals – Chapter 2.16)
Symbol
Signal Word
Hazard Statement
Warning
May be corrosive to metals
Guidance for Preparing Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
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Appendix III
Criteria for acute health relative toxicity categories
Acute Toxicity – Oral or Dermal
Acute Toxicity – Oral or Dermal (existing classification criteria)
Criteria:
LD50 ≤ 500 mg/kg body LD50 ≤ 1000 mg/kg
weight
body weight
Precautionary
Symbols and
Signal Words
LD50 ≤ 2000 mg/kg body
weight
Danger
Warning
Caution
Poison
Poison
Poison
Acute Toxicity – Oral or Dermal (GHS classification criteria)
Criteria: Oral
Category 1:
Category 2:
Category 3:
LD50 ≤ 5 mg/kg LD50 ≤ 50 mg/kg LD50 ≤ 300
mg/kg
Criteria: Dermal Category 1:
Category 2: LD50 Category 3:
LD50 ≤ 50
≤ 200 mg/kg
LD50 ≤ 1000
mg/kg
mg/kg
Symbol
Signal Word
Hazard
Statement - Oral
Hazard
Statement Dermal
Danger
Fatal if
swallowed
Fatal in contact
with skin
Danger
Fatal if
swallowed
Fatal in contact
with skin
Danger
Toxic if
swallowed
Toxic in contact
with skin
Guidance for Preparing Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
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Category 4: LD50 ≤
2000 mg/kg
Category 4: LD50 ≤
2000 mg/kg
Warning
Harmful if
swallowed
Harmful in contact
with skin
Appendix III
Acute Toxicity – Inhalation (Dusts and Mists)
Acute Toxicity – Inhalation (Dusts and Mists) (existing classification criteria)
Criteria:
LC50 ≤ 0.05 mg/L
LC50 ≤ 0.50 mg/L
LC50 ≤ 2.00 mg/L
Precautionary
Symbols and
Signal Words
Danger
Warning
Caution
Poison
Poison
Poison
Acute Toxicity – Inhalation (GHS classification criteria)
Criteria:
Category 1:
Category 2:
Category 3:
Category 4:
Dusts and
Mists
Gases
LC50 ≤ 0.05
mg/L
LC50 ≤ 100
ppmV
LC50 ≤ 0.50
mg/L
LC50 > 100 and
≤ 500 ppmV
LC50 ≤1.00
mg/L
LC50 > 500 and
≤ 2500 ppmV
LC50 ≤ 5.00 mg/L
Vapours
LC50 ≤ 0.5
mg/L
LC50 ≤ 0.5 and
≤ 2.0 mg/L
LC50 ≤ 2.0 and
≤ 10 mg/L
LC50 ≤ 10 and ≤
20 mg/L
Danger
Fatal if inhaled
Danger
Fatal if inhaled
Danger
Toxic if
inhaled
LC50 > 2500 and ≤
20000 ppmV
Symbol
Signal Word
Hazard
Statement
Guidance for Preparing Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
Page 45
Warning
Harmful if
inhaled
Appendix III
Skin Corrosion/Irritation
Skin Corrosion/Irritation (existing classification criteria)
Criteria using
Severely to extremely
Moderately
animal test data
irritating
irritating
Precautionary
Symbols and
Signal Words
Mildly irritating
Mean Draize scores of
≥1.6 - 3.0 for
erythema/eschar and
for oedema for 24, 48
and 72 hour
assessments for all
animals on test (usually
6)
Mean Draize scores of
≥5.1 - 8.0 for erythema/
eschar and for oedema for
24, 48, and 72 hour
assessments for all
animals on test (usually 6)
Mean Draize scores
of ≥3.1 - 5.0 for
erythema/eschar and
for oedema for 24,
48 and 72 hour
assessments for all
animals on test
(usually 6)
(no symbol)
(no symbol)
(no symbol)
Danger
Warning
Caution
Skin Irritant
Skin Irritant
Skin Irritant
Skin Corrosion/Irritation (continued) (classification criteria)
Criteria using
Contains 10% Contains 5-10% Contains 1-5%
physical/chemical or more
mineral acids or mineral acids or
properties
mineral acids alkali materials; alkali materials;
or alkali
Contains 5-20% Contains 1-5%
material;
organic acids;
organic acids;
Contains 20% Liquids
Solids
containing
or more
containing ≥ 1%
≥ 10%
organic acids
available
available
chlorine;
chlorine;
pH 0.5-2.5 or
pH ≤ 0.5
11.5-13.5
or ≥ 13.5
Precautionary
Symbols and
Signal Words
Liquid
products
containing
4-10%
available
chlorine
Liquid
products
which
contain
1-4%
available
chlorine
Danger
Warning
Caution
Caution
Caution
Corrosive
Corrosive
Corrosive
Irritant
(None)
Guidance for Preparing Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
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Appendix III
Skin Corrosion/Irritation (GHS classification criteria)
Criteria:
Categories 1A, 1B &
Category 2: Mean
1C:
Draize score of 2.3-4.0
Corrosive in ≥ 1/3
for erythema/eschar or
animals in 1 hour to ≤
for oedema for 24, 48
4 hours (≤ 14 days
and 72 hour assessments
observation)
in at least 2/3 animals;
grading on 3
consecutive days if
reactions delayed
Symbol
Signal Word
Hazard Statement
Danger
Causes severe skin
burns and eye damage
Warning
Causes skin irritation
Guidance for Preparing Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
Page 47
Category 3:
No symbol
Warning
Causes mild skin
irritation
Appendix III
Serious Eye Damage/ Eye Irritation
Serious Eye Damage/ Eye Irritation (existing classification criteria)
Criteria using
Severely to
Severely to extremely
Mildly irritating
animal test data extremely irritating
irritating (including
(including
irreversibility)
Maximum average score of
irreversibility)
≥ 15 - 24 for effects to
Maximum average
cornea, iris and
score of ≥ 50 - 110 for
Maximum average
conjunctivae
effects
to
cornea,
iris
score of ≥ 50 - 110
for effects to cornea, and conjunctivae
iris and conjunctivae
Precautionary
(No Symbol)
(No Symbol)
(No Symbol)
Symbols and
Signal Words
DANGER
WARNING
CAUTION
Corrosive to Eyes
Eye Irritant
Eye Irritant
Serious Eye Damage/ Eye Irritation (continued) (existing classification criteria)
Criteria using
Contains
Contains 5-10%
Contains 1-5% Liquid
physical/
10% or
mineral acids or
mineral acids
products
chemical
more
alkali materials;
or alkali
which
properties
mineral
Contains 5-20%
materials;
contain ≥
acids or
organic acids;
Contains 1-5% 4% - ≤
alkali
Liquids
organic acids;
10%
material;
containing 10% or Solids
available
Contains
more available
containing
chlorine
20% or
chlorine
over 1%
more
available
organic
pH ≤ 0.5 or ≥ 13.5 chlorine
acids;
pH between
0.5 - 2.5 or
11.5 - 13.5
Precautionary
Symbols and
Signal Words
Liquid
products
which
contain
≥1% - ≤4%
available
chlorine
DANGER
WARNING
CAUTION
CAUTION
CAUTION
Corrosive
Corrosive
Corrosive
Irritant
(None)
Guidance for Preparing Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
Page 48
Appendix III
Serious Eye Damage/ Eye Irritation (GHS classification criteria)
Criteria:
Category 1
Category 2A
Irreversible eye effects Eye effects, which fully reverse in
(or not expected to
21 days, characterized by at least
reverse) in 21 days in at 2/3 test animals with corneal
least 1 test animal;
opacity ≥ 1; iritis ≥ 1;
Mean scores (24, 48,
conjunctival redness ≥ 2;
72 hours) in 2/3 test
conjunctival oedema (chemosis) ≥
animals consisting of
2
corneal opacity ≥ 3
and/or iritis ≥ 1.5
Calculated as mean scores or
grading at 24, 48 and 72 hours
Symbol
Category 2B
Same criteria as
for Category
2A, however
effects are fully
reversible within
7 days
(None)
Signal Word
Hazard
Statement
Danger
Causes serious eye
damage
Warning
Causes serious eye irritation
Warning
Causes eye
irritation
Skin Sensitization
Skin Sensitization (existing classification criteria)
Criteria:
Substance induces an allergic response following skin contact
Precautionary
Symbol and Signal
(No Symbol)
Word
Potential Skin Sensitizer
Skin Sensitization (GHS classification criteria)
Criteria: Evidence in humans that the substance can induce sensitization by skin contact
in a substantial number of persons. Positive results from an appropriate animal test (GHS
Hazard Class: Respiratory or Skin Sensitization – Chapter 3.4)
Symbol
Signal Word
Hazard Statement
Warning
May cause an allergic skin reaction
Guidance for Preparing Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
Page 49
Appendix III
Criteria for the acute environment hazards
Acute Aquatic Toxicity
Acute Aquatic Toxicity (PMRA classification criteria)
If risk to the surrogate species of aquatic organisms tested including algae, aquatic
vascular plants, aquatic invertebrates, or fish identified in the acute or chronic risk
assessment results in the requirement of a buffer zone OR if the acute LC50 for the
surrogate species of aquatic organisms tested, including algae, aquatic vascular plants,
aquatic invertebrates, or fish is ≤ 1 mg/L, the following label statement is required “Toxic
to aquatic organisms”. No symbol is currently used.
Acute Aquatic Toxicity (GHS classification criteria)
Criteria:
Category 1:
Category 2:
96hr LC50 (fish) ≤ 1 mg/L 96hr LC50(fish) >1 but
and/or,
≤ 10 mg/L and/or,
48hr EC50 (crustacean) ≤ 1
48hr EC50 (crustacean)
mg/L and/or, 72 or
>1 but ≤ 10 mg/L
96hr ErC50 (algae or other
and/or 72 or 96hr
ErC50 (algae or other aquatic
aquatic plants) ≤ 1 mg/L
plants) >1 but ≤ 10
mg/L
Symbol
(None)
Category 3:
96hr LC50(fish) >10 but ≤
100 mg/L and/or 48hr
EC50 (crustacean) >10 but ≤
100 mg/L and/or 72 or
96hr ErC50 (algae or other
aquatic plants) >10 but ≤
100 mg/L
(None)
Environment 12
Signal Word
Hazard
Statement
12
Warning
Very toxic to aquatic
life
(None)
Toxic to aquatic life
(None)
Harmful to aquatic life
The GHS environment symbol is provided for information only and does not need to be included in the
SDS to be consistent with this guideline.
Guidance for Preparing Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
Page 50