Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Standardized Awareness Practice Test

What is a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) primarily used for?

1. Providing entertainment safety tips

2. Detailing information prepared by the manufacturer

3. Listing all available chemicals in the market

4. Explaining how to recycle chemical containers

The correct answer is: Detailing information prepared by the manufacturer

A Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is primarily used for detailing information prepared by the manufacturer about hazardous substances. It serves as a crucial document that provides comprehensive information on a chemical's properties, health hazards, safe handling and storage, emergency procedures, and environmental effects. This information is vital for ensuring the safety of those who may come into contact with hazardous materials, such as workers, emergency responders, and regulatory agencies. The SDS includes standardized sections that cover various aspects of the chemical, such as first-aid measures, firefighting measures, personal protective equipment (PPE) recommendations, and exposure controls, which collectively help users to understand how to manage risks associated with the chemical effectively. This makes the SDS an essential part of workplace safety and compliance with regulations related to hazardous substances. In contrast, the other options do not accurately represent the purpose of an SDS. Having entertainment safety tips, listing all available chemicals in the market, and explaining how to recycle chemical containers do not align with the main function of the SDS, which focuses specifically on safety and handling information about individual hazardous chemicals.