What is the purpose of safety data sheets (SDS)?

The purpose of safety data sheets (SDS) is to provide comprehensive information about hazardous substances. These documents are essential for ensuring safety in the workplace, as they describe the properties of the chemicals, including the risks associated with them, safe handling practices, and emergency response measures. Each sheet includes details such as toxicity, health effects, protective measures, and information on how to dispose of the substance safely, which is crucial for compliance with occupational safety regulations.

The other options focus on different aspects of workplace safety and management. Documenting workplace accidents refers to tracking incidents for reporting and prevention purposes, while training employees on equipment usage involves educating staff on operating machinery safely. Tracking employee attendance, on the other hand, pertains to human resources management rather than safety protocols. Thus, the primary objective of SDS remains centered around providing detailed safety information about hazardous substances.