Every hazardous material shipped from a manufacturer requires which document?

The requirement for a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS), now commonly referred to as a Safety Data Sheet (SDS), stems from regulations designed to ensure the safety and health of workers who may be exposed to hazardous materials. The SDS provides critical information about the properties of a chemical, including its hazards, handling and storage guidance, health effects, safe usage practices, and emergency procedures in case of exposure or accidents.

This document is essential for employers and employees, as it aids in understanding the risks associated with the materials and outlines necessary precautions to mitigate those risks. The inclusion of the SDS in the shipping documentation facilitates compliance with occupational safety standards and informs users about safe handling practices for potentially dangerous substances.

Other documents, like user manuals, risk assessment reports, and material identification cards, serve different purposes and do not specifically provide the comprehensive safety details that the SDS does. Therefore, the correct answer emphasizes the critical role the SDS plays in communicating hazards and ensuring safety in environments dealing with hazardous materials.