Comprehensibility of material safety data sheets.
The Hazard Communications Standard, commonly known as the Worker Right to Know law, requires that a chemical information sheet, known as a material safety data sheet (MSDS), be produced for all hazardous chemicals. This study examines the comprehensibility of a sample of MSDSs to a group of about 100 unionized workers in manufacturing industries located in the state of Maryland. Workers were given several MSDSs and performed the equivalent of an open-book test answering questions regarding health and safety information that was provided on the MSDS. On average, the information on the MSDSs was found to be about one-third incomprehensible. This result raises concerns regarding policies and practices for hazard communication. There is a clear indication that MSDSs need to be improved if workers must rely on them for health and safety information.
Kolp
P
P
Kearney/Centaur Division, A.T. Kearney Inc., Alexandria, VA.
Sattler
B
B
Blayney
M
M
Sherwood
T
T
D002617:Chemical Industry; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D005568:Forms and Records Control; D015386:Hazardous Substances; D006801:Humans; D008396:Maryland; D016272:Occupational Health / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014342:Truth Disclosure
D015386:Hazardous Substances