What is an SDS and why do you need it?

A Safety Data Sheet (SDS), formerly Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS), is a document containing occupational health and safety information. EU regulations, as well as regulations in most other territories, require that an SDS is supplied to distributers and downstream users. Preparation of SDS data sheets requires comprehensive knowledge of chemicals, toxicology and safety risk assessments.

E-liquids potentially contain multiple substances that pose a hazard. Those containing nicotine almost certainly do. These hazards also trigger specific labelling requirements. Many e-liquids are potentially breaching regulations with absent or incorrect information within SDSs and on labels.

Our specialist chemists at EL-Science are ready to classify your e-liquid and support you with authoring your SDS to meet regulatory needs. We can also advise you whether your labels are compliant with Tobacco Products Directive (TPD) and Classification, Labelling & Packaging (CLP) regulations.

Are you singing in harmony?

The Classification, Labelling and Packaging (CLP) Regulations (Regulation (EU) No. 1272/2008) lays down the rules for classifying mixtures. On 4th May 2017 Regulation (EU) 2017/776 amended the harmonised classification of nicotine meaning any mixtures containing nicotine need to be re-classified. The amendment entered into force on 1st December 2018. This means that nicotine containing products placed on the market after this date must be classified, labelled and packaged in harmony with the amended classification.

A period of grace allows products classified to the old harmonised classification to remain on the market for a ‘certain period of time’. Although not specified this is generally accepted as the original best before date. Make sure you’re in harmony with the CLP Regulations.

Do you export your products?

Whether you are exporting your products to another EU member state or to the rest of the world, it is a requirement that SDSs and labels need to be in a language that can be understood. This usually means that all hazard communications need to be in the language of the country the products are being sent to. EL-Science can help you to classify your products and author your SDS to comply with local regulations for the market being sold into.

A typical SDS will cost £150 + VAT with each additional language £50 + VAT.