Each SDS includes both standard phrases and unique phrases. Any phrases that outline specific directions (handling procedures, first aid procedures, storage, firefighting procedures, etc) are unique. Hazard and precautionary statements are the statements that are regulated.
Classifications are populated to define each chemical component. Then algorithms and rules are implemented to ensure that the combination of chemical classifications accurately represent the entirety of the product.
There are two variations of standard phrases, H Statements and P Statements:
H statements are a hazard statement that describe physical, health, and environmental hazards. H statements are comprised of a series of letters and numbers that start with an H, and are followed by three numerical figures. The second number in the series describes the primary nature of the hazard:
If the number is 2, the statement refers to physical hazards
If the number is 3, the statement refers to health hazards
If the number is 4, the statement refers to environmental hazards
Finally, the third and the fourth number in the series signify the specific hazards illustrated by the code.
For instance, H319 classifies a chemical as an irritant 2, which identifies that product as something that “causes serious eye irritation.”
P statements are specific directions that outline prevention, response, storage, and disposal.
P statements are comprised of a series of letters and numbers that start with an P, and are followed by three numerical figures. The second number in the series describes one of the five types of statements:
If the number is 1, the statement refers to general recommendations
If the number is 2, the statement refers to prevention recommendations
If the number is 3, the statement refers to response recommendations
If the number is 4, the statement refers to storage recommendations
If the number is 5, the statement refers to disposal recommendations
For instance, the P statement P280 recommends that employees, “wear protective eye protection/face protection.”
