Medical Device Reprocessing Association of Ontario (MDRAO) Practice Exam

How often do Safety Data Sheets (MSDS and SDS) need to be updated?

1. Every year

2. Every 3 years

3. As needed

4. Every 5 years

The correct answer is: Every 3 years

Safety Data Sheets (MSDS and SDS) are crucial documents that provide detailed information about the properties, handling, storage, and emergency measures related to hazardous substances. The requirement for updating these sheets is influenced by several factors, including changes in data regarding the hazards associated with a substance, regulatory changes, or any modifications in the use or application of the substance itself. The most prudent approach ensures these sheets are kept current and provide the most relevant information. Guidelines suggest that Safety Data Sheets should be reviewed and updated periodically; thus, while an annual review may be prudent, a three-year update period serves as a reasonable benchmark. This allows facilities to ensure compliance with evolving safety standards and regulatory requirements, ensuring that the risks associated with materials are well understood and effectively communicated to workers handling the substances. In contrast, updating requirements every year, every five years, or only as needed may not adequately address shifts in knowledge or regulatory standards, leading potentially to the inadequate handling of hazardous materials. Having a systematic approach to update every three years strikes a balance between maintaining up-to-date information without unnecessary redundancy.