In what situations are safety data sheets (SDS) required?

Safety Data Sheets (SDS) are essential documents that provide detailed information about hazardous chemicals that employees may encounter in the workplace. They are required specifically when employees are exposed to these hazardous substances. The SDS outlines critical information such as the chemical properties of the substance, potential hazards associated with its use, safe handling and storage practices, emergency response measures, and disposal guidelines. This requirement is in place to ensure that employees have access to the necessary information that helps them work safely and respond appropriately in case of an emergency involving hazardous chemicals.

The other situations described do not specifically necessitate SDS. For instance, routine safety inspections may evaluate workplace conditions, but they do not require SDS unless hazardous chemicals are present and potentially exposed. Similarly, laboratories often have SDS available due to the common use of various chemicals, but this is not the sole context where SDS are mandated. Machinery operation may involve various safety precautions, but it does not inherently trigger the requirement for SDS unless hazardous chemicals are involved. Therefore, the requirement for SDS is specifically tied to the exposure of employees to hazardous chemicals, making that answer correct.