The Importance of Section 7 in the Safety Data Sheet

Section 7 of the Safety Data Sheet is a key element of chemical documentation, containing recommendations for the safe handling of a chemical substance or mixture and its storage. The information in this section must be consistent with the hazards described in Section 2 (Hazard Identification) and the chemical composition outlined in Section 3 (Composition/Information on Ingredients).

Correct compilation of Section 7 of the SDS is essential for chemical risk management and protecting the health of workers.

Subsection 7.1 of the Safety Data Sheet – Precautions for Safe Handling

Subsection 7.1 of the Safety Data Sheet should contain specific measures that limit the risk of exposure or the occurrence of hazardous incidents during the use of the product. This should include, among others:

• hygiene and occupational safety rules,

• measures preventing the release of vapors, dusts, or aerosols,

• selection of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE),

• requirement for local exhaust ventilation,

• measures preventing electrostatic discharge,

• information on material compatibility.

For some substances, it may also be necessary to include special procedures in the Safety Data Sheet, such as:

• working in an inert gas atmosphere,

• equipment grounding,

• use of explosion-proof systems (ATEX).

👉 Practical tip: The more precise the recommendations in this section, the easier it is for the end user to implement appropriate protection measures in their working environment.

Subsection 7.2 of the Safety Data Sheet – Conditions for Safe Storage, Including Any Incompatibilities

Subsection 7.2 of the Safety Data Sheet should describe the conditions that ensure safe storage of the substance or mixture, as well as indicate potential incompatibilities. Mandatory elements of this section include:

• requirements for temperature, humidity, and pressure (depending on the product’s properties),

• a list of materials and substances to avoid during storage,

• information on the preferred type of packaging,

• indication of the storage class (according to TRGS 510 or other applicable guidelines), if applicable.

👉 Practical tip: Storage conditions described in the Safety Data Sheet should match the substance’s physicochemical properties and hazard classification. This helps to avoid dangerous reactions and reduces storage-related risks.

Summary – Why Section 7 of the Safety Data Sheet Matters

Section 7 of the Safety Data Sheet has a direct impact on chemical user safety and compliance with occupational health and safety regulations and environmental protection requirements. Proper authoring of SDS Section 7:

• supports occupational risk assessment,

• facilitates the selection of appropriate tools and handling methods,

• helps in emergency response planning,

• reduces the likelihood of accidents and incidents.