Ask the expert: MSDS information by telephone

By: David LaHoda May 11th, 2009

Q: Is receiving material safety data sheet (MSDS) information by telephone an adequate backup for an electronic MSDS system?

A: Yes. A February 18, 1999, OSHA letter of interpretation says that relaying MSDS information by telephone is acceptable as a backup system in the event of failure of the primary electronic system, as long as the MSDS is delivered to the site as soon as possible.

For more MSDS OSHA compliance resources, download “Electronic Material Data Sheet Systems” and “Determining When an MSDS Is Necessary” from the OSHA Healthcare Advisor Tools page.

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David LaHoda



David LaHoda, the managing editor of Medical Environment Update and OSHA Watch, has produced healthcare training videos and consulted for medical practices and ambulatory healthcare facilities.

David has written 196 posts.

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