The Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is a fundamental document for safe chemical management. Creating an SDS requires a thorough hazard analysis—especially in Section 2, which focuses on CLP classification, product labelling, and additional hazards.

This section lays the foundation for risk assessment, the selection of personal protective equipment (PPE), emergency response measures, and disposal procedures. The type of hazards identified determines how the product should be handled.

2.1 Classification of the substance or mixture – the foundation of safety

This subsection presents the classification of the substance or mixture in accordance with CLP Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008. Determining the correct hazard class is essential for appropriate labelling and risk assessment for users and the environment.

Classification must include:

• Physicochemical hazards (e.g., flammability, reactivity),

• Health hazards (e.g., toxicity, irritation, sensitisation),

• Environmental hazards (e.g., aquatic toxicity).

Accurate classification enables the selection of correct hazard pictograms, hazard (H) and precautionary (P) statements, and appropriate risk management measures. Every SDS should begin with the development of this section.

2.2 Label elements – the bridge between the SDS and chemical labelling

Subsection 2.2 covers the mandatory labelling elements required by the CLP Regulation. These must align exactly with what appears on the chemical product label.

This includes:

• Hazard pictograms (e.g., GHS01–GHS09),

• Signal words (“Danger” or “Warning”),

• Hazard statements (H phrases),

• Precautionary statements (P phrases).

All labelling elements listed in this SDS section must be consistent with those displayed on the packaging to ensure effective hazard communication.

2.3 Other hazards – what else can the SDS tell us?

The final part of Section 2 identifies hazards not classified under the CLP Regulation but still relevant to risk management. These include:

• Dust generation or dust explosion risk,

• Endocrine-disrupting properties (EDs),

• Whether the substance meets the criteria for PBT (Persistent, Bioaccumulative, and Toxic) or vPvB (very Persistent and very Bioaccumulative).

This subsection helps users fully understand the range of potential hazards and adopt additional precautionary measures where necessary.

The importance of Section 2 for other parts of the SDS

The information in Section 2 significantly influences the content of subsequent SDS sections, such as:

• Section 4 (First-aid measures) – how to respond to exposure,

• Section 6 (Accidental release measures) – how to contain and mitigate releases,

• Section 8 (Exposure controls/personal protection) – how to select appropriate PPE and technical controls,

• Section 13 (Disposal considerations) – safe disposal methods for the substance or mixture.

Summary

Section 2 of the Safety Data Sheet plays a key role in hazard identification and serves as the cornerstone for the rest of the document. A clear classification, correct labelling, and disclosure of other relevant hazards ensure legal compliance and promote safe chemical use.

Proper SDS development requires detailed hazard evaluation and an understanding of the potential impact on users and the environment—making Section 2 one of the most critical parts of the entire SDS.