SDS Cross-Check Checklist

What’s inside

• Section 2 map: For each hazard type, the corresponding supporting sections are identified.
• Checklist for Sections 1 through 16, presented as yes/no boxes.
• Regional supplements for WHMIS (Canada), REACH and CLP (EU), UK REACH and GB CLP, and NOM-018 (Mexico).
• A concise pre-release checklist and a summary of changes that require a re-check.

Begin with Section 2

Section 2 determines the label and most of the SDS content. For each classified hazard, ensure the supporting sections provide appropriate documentation.

If Section 2 lists	Check these sections
Physical hazards (flammable, oxidizer, self-reactive, corrosive to metals)	5, 7, 9, 10, 14
Acute toxicity, skin or eye effects	3, 4, 8, 11
Sensitization	3, 4, 8, 11
Carcinogenicity, mutagenicity, reproductive toxicity	3, 11, 15
Specific target organ toxicity or aspiration	3, 4, 8, 11
Hazards to the aquatic environment	3, 12, 14
Hazards not otherwise classified (US)	3, 8, 11

Key checklist items

• Every ingredient that drives a Section 2 classification is listed in Section 3
• PPE in Section 8 matches every hazard in Section 2
• Flash point and boiling point in Section 9 support the flammability class and the Section 14 packing group
• Section 11 toxicology supports every health hazard in Section 2
• Where transport and GHS classifications differ, you can explain why

The complete checklist includes over 70 items, covering all 16 sections and four regions.

When to use it

Use the checklist before releasing a new SDS and whenever there are changes to raw materials, formulas, test results, or regulations. In the US, significant new information must be added to the SDS within three months.

Related reading: The 16 Sections of an SDS: A Section-by-Section Guide, Section 2 across HazCom, WHMIS and CLP, Section 8 exposure limits, and GHS vs DOT classification.