OSHA requirements are set by statute, standards and regulations. Our interpretation letters explain these requirements and how they apply to particular circumstances, but they cannot create additional employer obligations. This letter constitutes OSHA's interpretation of the requirements discussed. Note that our enforcement guidance may be affected by changes to OSHA rules. Also, from time to time we update our guidance in response to new information. To keep apprised of such developments, you can consult OSHA's website at https://www.osha.gov.

May 12, 1988

MEMORANDUM FOR: BRUCE HILLENBRAND, DIRECTOR
  Directorate of Federal-State Operations
 
FROM: THOMAS J. SHEPICH, DIRECTOR
  Directorate of Compliance Programs
 
SUBJECT: Clarification of Interpretation on Material Safety
  Data Sheet Requirements Under the Hazard Communication
  Standard

Ms. Barbara Bryant, of your staff, has brought to our attention a concern that was raised during the February meeting of the Occupational Safety and Health State Plan Association held in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. The concern has to do with a past interpretation (copy attached) made by this Directorate regarding leaving off a section on a material safety data sheet (MSDS) when the pertaining information does not exist. Some OSHA personnel have mistakenly interpreted this policy to apply only to computer generated MSDS.

It was and still is our policy that the interpretation applies to any type of MSDS. Since the standard is performance-oriented and no MSDS format is specified, employers are free to develop MSDSs that are designed for a specific chemical. For example, if an employer develops a MSDS for a chemical which is not a carcinogen, a space addressing carcinogenicity does not have to be provided on the form.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Steve Simon on 523-8036.