Every SDS follows the same standardised 16-section format worldwide, which means once you know the structure, you can find what you need in any supplier's document — not just ours.
Sections 1–4: Identification, Hazards and First Aid
Section 1 identifies the product and supplier; Section 2 gives the GHS hazard classification and pictograms (see our pictogram guide); Section 3 lists the chemical composition; Section 4 covers first-aid measures — this is the section to bookmark for a genuine exposure incident.
Sections 5–8: Fire, Spill, Handling and Exposure
Section 5 covers firefighting measures (including what NOT to use — water on some chemical fires makes things worse); Section 6 is accidental-release/spill response; Section 7 is safe handling and storage guidance; Section 8 covers exposure limits and the specific PPE recommended for that chemical.
Sections 9–11: Physical Data and Toxicology
Section 9 lists physical and chemical properties (relevant to process design, not just safety); Section 10 covers stability and reactivity — what the chemical reacts dangerously with; Section 11 is toxicological information for occupational-health assessment.
Sections 12–16: Environmental, Disposal, Transport and Regulatory
Section 12 covers ecological/environmental hazard information; Section 13 is disposal guidance; Section 14 has the transport classification your logistics provider needs; Section 15 lists applicable regulatory information; Section 16 covers any other information, including revision history.
See our related guide on TDS vs MSDS vs COA for how the SDS fits alongside the other documents you'll receive with an order.