Who is responsible for communicating the contents of an MSDS to employees?

The responsibility for communicating the contents of a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS), now often referred to as a Safety Data Sheet (SDS), lies with employers. Under the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations, employers are required to provide their employees with information and training on hazardous substances in the workplace, which includes ensuring that employees understand how to read and interpret an SDS.

Employers must make the SDS readily available to employees, often kept in a designated area where workers can access them easily. This proactive approach empowers employees to safely handle materials, understand the risks involved, and know the necessary precautions to take. Proper communication about the contents of the SDS helps promote a culture of safety within the workplace and ensures compliance with health and safety regulations.

In contrast, while manufacturers do provide the SDS, it is ultimately the employer's responsibility to ensure that the information is conveyed to their employees effectively. Roofing inspectors and state regulatory agencies may have roles in safety oversight, but the primary duty for educating and informing employees rests with the employers.