PHOTO SHOWS → TYPICAL WALL-MOUNTED SDS STATION → Must be stocked, accessible, and clearly labeled → MISSING OR EMPTY = OSHA VIOLATION
What You Are Looking At
- A wall-mounted SDS binder, cabinet, or digital kiosk labeled “Safety Data Sheets,” “SDS,” or “Right-to-Know Station.”
- Contains current, manufacturer-issued SDS for every hazardous chemical used or stored anywhere on site.
- Should be easy to locate, not blocked, and positioned at approximately eye level.
Why This Is a Serious Concern
- Missing or incomplete SDS = OSHA citation under 29 CFR 1910.1200(e)(1)(i).
- workers cannot quickly access PPE, handling, spill, storage, or first-aid information during an emergency.
- Average OSHA penalty (2025): $15,625 per violation, with repeat violations potentially exceeding $150,000.
- Incomplete SDS programs frequently lead to chemical exposure injuries and regulatory stop-work orders.
Good Condition (Acceptable)
- Bright red/yellow SDS sign clearly visible.
- Binder/cabinet mounted 42–60 inches from floor (standard ergonomic guidance; not regulatory).
- Complete 16-section SDS present for every hazardous chemical on premises.
- Unblocked, clean, organized (alphabetical or by department).
- SDS updated whenever chemicals change.
Fix Needed – HIGH PRIORITY (OSHA Violation)
- Binder missing SDS, or sheets absent for chemicals being used.
- Station blocked, or mounted too high/low to access easily.
- Faded or missing SDS signage.
- Torn/dirty/overflowing binder.
- No SDS station present in an area that uses/stores hazardous chemicals.
Corrective Actions & Proper Recommendation
- Immediate
- Collect current manufacturer SDS for every hazardous chemical and place in the binder.
- Remove any blockage to ensure direct access.
- Within 7 Days
- Install or relocate SDS station to a central, unobstructed, eye-level location with a new red/yellow SDS sign.
- Verify sheets match all chemicals in storage/use.
- Ongoing
- Assign a responsible person to update SDS within 24 hours whenever a new chemical arrives.
- Conduct an annual HazCom program review, per OSHA 1910.1200(e)(1).
Report Wording Suggestions
“Good” –
“SDS station present, clearly labeled, fully stocked with current sheets, and easily accessible with no obstructions.”
“Fix Needed – HIGH RISK” –
“SDS station missing, incomplete, blocked, or not labeled. Immediate OSHA Hazard Communication violation. Recommend installing a complete SDS station, adding proper signage, and updating all chemical sheets.”
LCA Certified Inspector Motto
“Find it. Stock it. Sign it. Rec it.”
Disclosure
This card identifies common OSHA Hazard Communication deficiencies.
Always verify 29 CFR 1910.1200, state Right-to-Know laws, and site-specific chemical handling requirements.
When in doubt — recommend immediate correction and documentation.