To comply with OSHA's Safety Data Sheet (SDS) requirements under the Hazard Communication Standard (HCS 2012) (29 CFR 1910.1200), follow these key steps:

1. Maintain Safety Data Sheets (SDSs) for Hazardous Chemicals

• Obtain an SDS for each hazardous chemical in your workplace from the manufacturer or supplier.
• Ensure the SDS is in English and contains 16 sections as required by OSHA.
• Keep SDSs readily accessible to all employees in the workplace during each work shift.

2. Ensure SDSs Follow OSHA’s 16-Section Format
Each SDS must include the following sections:

1. Identification – Product name, manufacturer, and emergency contact.
2. Hazard(s) Identification – Classification of the chemical hazards.
3. Composition/Information on Ingredients – Chemical name and mixture details.
4. First-Aid Measures – Symptoms and treatment instructions.
5. Fire-Fighting Measures – Suitable extinguishing methods.
6. Accidental Release Measures – Cleanup and containment procedures.
7. Handling and Storage – Safe use and storage conditions.
8. Exposure Controls/Personal Protection – OSHA limits and PPE requirements.
9. Physical and Chemical Properties – Appearance, odor, and stability.
10. Stability and Reactivity – Chemical stability and reactivity.
11. Toxicological Information – Health effects and exposure risks.
12. Ecological Information – Environmental impact (non-mandatory).
13. Disposal Considerations – Safe disposal practices (non-mandatory).
14. Transport Information – Shipping and handling details (non-mandatory).
15. Regulatory Information – Compliance regulations (non-mandatory).
16. Other Information – SDS revision date and other relevant data.

3. Train Employees on SDS Use

• Provide training on how to read, interpret, and use SDSs.
• Explain hazards, safe handling, PPE requirements, and emergency procedures.
• Ensure training occurs at the time of hire and when new chemicals are introduced.
  

4. Update and Review SDSs Regularly

• Ensure SDSs are current and up to date.
• Replace old SDSs when manufacturers update hazard information.
• Conduct periodic audits to verify compliance.

5. Make SDSs Easily Accessible

While there isn’t a one-size-fits-all mandated location, OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard requires that SDS be readily accessible to all employees in the work area. Here are some best practices for placing SDS in the workplace:

• Immediate Accessibility:
  In the Work Area: SDS should be stored where employees can easily reach them during their work shifts—such as in a common binder or a designated area near where the chemicals are used or stored.
  
  Avoid Locked Locations: They should not be kept in locked cabinets or remote areas where access could be delayed in an emergency.
  
  
• Centralized Storage Options:
  Physical Binder: Many workplaces maintain a binder containing all SDS for the chemicals in use. This binder is often kept near the chemical storage area or in a central location accessible to all employees.
  
  Electronic Access: If you use an electronic system (such as a company intranet or a dedicated software solution), ensure that all employees have quick and reliable access. The system should be available on computers or mobile devices in the work area, and it should be easy to navigate.
  
  
• Employee Training and Signage:
  Clear Directions: Make sure employees know where to find the SDS. This can be achieved through regular training sessions and visible signage that directs them to the SDS location.
  
  Emergency Readiness: In the event of an emergency, employees should be able to quickly locate and refer to the SDS for guidance on handling spills, exposures, or other incidents.
  
  
• Compliance with Regulations:
  Review Regularly: Ensure that the SDS are current and reflect any changes in chemical formulations or usage. Regular reviews help maintain compliance with OSHA and other local regulations.
  
  Accessibility During Shifts: Employers must guarantee that the SDS are available during each work shift. Whether stored physically or electronically, the system should support continuous access.

In Summary:

Place your SDS in a location that is immediately accessible to all employees in the areas where hazardous chemicals are present. This might be a centralized binder near the chemical storage area or an easily accessible electronic database, as long as it meets the requirement for quick and easy access in both routine and emergency situations.