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Chemistry vocabulary · Laboratory Safety

Safety data sheet

Meaning in chemistry, with examples

nounCore term

In chemistry, safety data sheet means: A standard document from the supplier that describes a chemical's hazards, safe handling, storage, first aid and disposal. It is usually shortened to SDS.

In Turkish: güvenlik bilgi formu, GBF, malzeme güvenlik bilgi formu

How it is used

Required reading before you use a new chemical. You check or consult the SDS, which has 16 standard sections under the GHS. Older documents and many people still say MSDS (material safety data sheet).

Example sentences

  1. Read the safety data sheet before you use any chemical for the first time.

  2. According to the safety data sheet, this solvent must be stored away from oxidizers.

Common collocations

  • check the safety data sheet
  • SDS section
  • up-to-date SDS
  • according to the SDS
  • hazard pictogramA small symbol in a red-bordered diamond on a chemical label that warns of a specific danger, such as flammable, toxic, corrosive or harmful to the environment.
  • PPEShort for personal protective equipment: the items you wear to protect yourself from hazards in the lab, such as a lab coat, safety goggles and gloves.
  • fume hoodA ventilated cabinet with a sliding glass front that draws fumes away from the user. Work with volatile, toxic or strong-smelling chemicals is done inside it.
  • chemical wasteUnwanted chemicals and materials contaminated with them, such as used solvents, reaction residues and dirty gloves, that must be collected and disposed of safely.
  • flammableDescribes a substance that catches fire easily and burns quickly. Many organic solvents, such as acetone, diethyl ether and ethanol, belong to this group.

This word in other fields

The same English word can have a different meaning in another field:

More terms: Laboratory Safety

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