- Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and Technical Data Sheets (TDS) are two types of documents used to provide information about chemical products. While both documents contain important information about the product, there are some key differences between SDS and TDS.
SDS:
- Provides information about the hazards associated with a chemical product, as well as instructions for safe handling, use, and disposal.
- Required by law in many countries, including the United States and European Union, for hazardous chemical products.
- Includes 16 standardized sections, including information on product identification, hazard identification, composition, first-aid measures, and more.
- Designed to provide comprehensive information for workers, emergency responders, and other stakeholders who may come into contact with the product.
TDS:
- Provides technical information about the chemical and physical properties of a product, as well as guidance on how to use and apply the product effectively.
- Often used in the manufacturing and processing industries to provide technical information to engineers, chemists, and other professionals.
- May include information on product formulation, performance characteristics, recommended usage levels, and more.
- Generally not required by law, although some industries may have specific requirements or standards for TDSs.
In summary, SDSs are primarily focused on providing information about the safety and hazards associated with a chemical product, while TDSs are focused on providing technical information about the product’s properties and use. While there may be some overlap between the two types of documents, they serve different purposes and are intended for different audiences.