Don’t Wait Until the OSHA Deadline: Why Now is the Time to seek SDS Authoring

If you manufacture, import, or distribute chemicals in the U.S., you're likely aware of OSHA's updated Hazard Communication Standard (HazCom 2024). The rule went into effect on July 19, 2024, changing Safety Data Sheet (SDSs) and labeling requirements. While that may sound like plenty of time to prepare, the compliance deadlines are closer than you think:

• January 19, 2026: Labels and SDSs for substances must be reviewed and updated as necessary.
• July 19, 2027: Labels and SDSs for mixtures must be reviewed and updated as necessary.

That means the clock is already ticking—waiting until the last minute could leave your business scrambling.

Revised Workplace Safety Measures & Chemical Handling Protocols

Key changes to the OSHA Hazard Communication Standard include:

• Enhanced Labels: Labels on small containers are now more readable and comprehensive, ensuring better understanding for end-users.
• Improved Trade Secret Disclosure: Workers and first responders will receive critical hazard information on Safety Data Sheets (SDSs) wider access to previously concealed trade secret information.
• Revised Classification Criteria: Certain hazard categories, including aerosols, desensitized explosives, and flammable gases, have updated classification criteria for improved safety procedures.
• New Hazard Category: "Chemicals Under Pressure" has been introduced within the aerosols class.
• Updated Precautionary Statements: Guidance on handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous chemicals has been provided for the new/updated categories and improvements to other statements where necessary.
• Alignment with Federal Agencies and Canada: The standard now aligns more closely with other federal agencies and Canadian regulations.

The Hidden Burden of SDS Updates

For a product manufacturer/supplier, updating SDSs requires:

• Identifying which of your products are impacted by the new standard.
• Collecting updated analysis on the physical characteristics of your products, if dated or processes have changed.
• Re-authoring the SDS, generating and printing new labels that meet OSHA's revised requirements.
• Re-issuing updated SDS to recent customers, new customers, and vendors and re-labeling products for shipment.

This process can quickly overwhelm teams if handled manually. Beyond the compliance risk, delays and inefficiencies can mean costly interruptions to your supply chain.

Why Automation is the Key

Companies that engage an SDS authoring service or put an automated SDS authoring system in place now will have a significant advantage:

• Centralized compliance: Consolidate compliance data and processes into one, unified platform, eliminating the need for multiple, disconnected systems and reducing the risk of inaccuracy and inconsistency in hazard communication.
• Efficiency at scale: Run queries to instantly identify affected products.
• Downstream support: Generate and print compliant labels, making it easier to plan production and assess costs.
• Peace of mind: Ensure you're on track for both the 2026 and 2027 deadlines without last-minute panic.

Don't Risk Falling Behind

Compliance isn't optional. Fines, reputational damage, and potential disruptions to your customer relationships all loom if you don't act in time. By modernizing your SDS authoring process today, you're not just meeting regulations—you're protecting your business.

Choosing Between SDS Authoring Services or Software

One of the next steps is deciding whether your business should invest in SDS authoring software or rely on a managed service. Both options have unique benefits depending on your team's size, resources, and compliance needs. To help guide your decision, check out our detailed breakdown here: SDS Authoring Software vs. Services.

Now is the time to update your SDS. The earlier you adopt automation, the smoother your transition will be, and the less risk you'll face when deadlines arrive.

Ready to streamline compliance? Learn how an automated SDS authoring solution can help you stay ahead of OSHA's deadlines.

Connect with Quantum SDS today to see how we can help you simplify compliance, reduce risk, and meet OSHA's new requirements with confidence.