Who Needs to Keep SDS Sheets on File?

Safety Data Sheets (SDS), formerly called MSDS, explain chemical hazards, safe handling, and emergency response. In many operations, keeping SDS sheets accessible isn’t optional—it’s required.

Who needs them? 

Under OSHA rules, any operation where employees may be exposed to hazardous chemicals must keep SDS sheets on file. This includes farms, ag retailers, shops, construction crews, and service businesses.

If a chemical is present and an employee could be exposed during normal use or an emergency, an SDS is required.

Do small farms count? 

Yes. Size doesn’t matter. Small farms and home-based operations must keep SDS sheets if employees handle products like pesticides, fertilizers, fuels, oils, or solvents.

Are there exceptions? 

Some consumer products are exempt—but if they’re used more frequently or in higher amounts than normal household use, SDS requirements usually apply.

Access and record-keeping: 

SDS sheets must be available as long as the product is on-site, be easy for employees to access (paper or digital), and exposure records must be retained for 30 years.

Why this matters for farmers: 

Many audits, insurance reviews, and inspections fail over missing paperwork, not unsafe practices. Keeping current SDS sheets on file is one of the simplest ways to protect your operation and your people.

Bottom line:

If you use or store hazardous products and have employees, you need SDS sheets on file. It’s an easy win for safety and compliance.

-Dwayne