Certified Human Resource Professional (CHRP) Practice Exam

How frequently must Material Safety Data Sheets be updated?

1. Every year

2. Every 2 years

3. Every 3 years

4. Every 5 years

The correct answer is: Every 3 years

Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS), now more commonly referred to as Safety Data Sheets (SDS) due to updated regulations, must be updated at least every three years. This requirement ensures that the information remains current, reflecting any changes in the manufacturing process, regulatory updates, or new safety information that might arise regarding the chemical or substance in question. Updating SDS every three years is vital for ensuring the safety of employees and compliance with occupational health and safety regulations. It helps in providing the most accurate hazard information, handling procedures, and protective measures. In some jurisdictions, if there is significant new information about a hazardous chemical that could affect worker safety or health, an SDS must be updated more frequently, regardless of the standard three-year timeline. Understanding the three-year update cycle is essential for human resource professionals who oversee health and safety protocols in the workplace, as it ensures the adherence to safety regulations and promotes a culture of safety among employees.