Chemical safety, SDS and labelling checklist

Site: ______________________ Date: ____________ Checked by: ______________________

01Control and assessment

A named competent person controls the hazardous substances on site. WSH (GP) Regs, reg 41
Risk assessment done for each task that uses or stores hazardous substances. WSH (RM) Regs
Chemical inventory up to date and matches what is on the shelves.

02Safety data sheets

An SDS is held for every hazardous substance on site. WSH (GP) Regs, reg 43
SDS copies kept at the point of use and reachable on every shift. WSH (GP) Regs, reg 43
Each SDS has 16 sections and matches the product name and supplier on the label.
No SDS older than five years since its last issue date.
Precautions from sections 7 and 8 written into the safe work procedure. WSH (GP) Regs, reg 43

03Labels and notices

Every original container carries an intact GHS label. WSH (GP) Regs, reg 42
Every decanted container labelled, at least with product name and pictogram.
No chemicals in food or drink containers.
Warning notices posted at store entrances and points of use. WSH (GP) Regs, reg 41
Labels and notices in languages all workers understand. WSH (GP) Regs, reg 41

04Storage

Incompatible chemicals kept apart, as listed in SDS section 7 or 10.
Flammables kept away from ignition sources and in a fire-rated cabinet where provided.
Liquids stored on bunds or drip trays large enough for a leak.
Containers closed when not in use.

05People and emergencies

Workers trained on the hazards and safe work procedure for each chemical they use. WSH (GP) Regs, reg 41
PPE matches SDS section 8, including the right glove material.
Eyewash station or eyewash bottles within reach and in date.
Spill kit stocked and located near the store.
Training records kept for chemical handlers.

Legal requirement

In Singapore, a competent person must control hazardous substances. Warning notices must be in languages workers understand (WSH (General Provisions) Regulations, reg 41). Every container must carry a label conforming to SS 586 (reg 42). The occupier must obtain an SDS, act on it and make it available to anyone liable to be exposed (reg 43).

Sources and further reading

Workplace Safety and Health (General Provisions) Regulations (copy hosted by NUS), Ministry of Manpower (via NUS).
Risk management, Ministry of Manpower.
GHS Checklist, WSH Council.
Globally Harmonised System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals, WSH Council.
GHS booklet (Singapore), WSH Council.

This is practical guidance, not legal advice. Laws and codes of practice change; always check the current official text and your site's own procedures.

Chemical safety, SDS and labelling checklist

01Control and assessment

02Safety data sheets

03Labels and notices

04Storage

05People and emergencies

Sources and further reading

Related reading

Chemical safety, SDS and labels: what supervisors need to know

Chemical store inspection checklist

Toolbox talk: chemical labels and safety data sheets