noun

SDS

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SDS (noun) means a safety data sheet: a standard document supplied with a chemical product that sets out its hazards, safe handling, storage, protective equipment, first aid and emergency measures. Example: “Every chemical in the workshop must have a current SDS on file.”

noun

A safety data sheet: a standard document supplied with a chemical product that sets out its hazards, safe handling, storage, protective equipment, first aid and emergency measures.

"Every chemical in the workshop must have a current SDS on file."

"Check section 8 of the SDS for the required gloves."

chemistry Sodium dodecyl sulfate, a detergent used in laboratories to denature proteins and in consumer products as a foaming agent, also called sodium lauryl sulfate.

"Proteins were separated by SDS-PAGE."

"SDS strips the natural oils from your scalp."

historical Students for a Democratic Society, an American student activist organisation prominent in the 1960s New Left.

"He joined SDS during his second year at university."

How to use SDS

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishThe safety sheet that comes with a chemical, telling you the risks and what to do if something goes wrong.

When to use it

Technical but everyday in workplaces handling chemicals; spelled out on first use in general writing.

Memory tip

SDS sheet is technically redundant but extremely common in speech.

Trace the full origin ↓

Easily confused with

MSDS COSHH label →

Common pairings

SDS binder request an SDS SDS sheet

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Test yourself on “SDS” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

Every chemical in the workshop must have a current _____ on file.

Etymology

An initialism, most commonly of safety data sheet.

Origin: English

Synonyms

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safety data sheet MSDS material safety data sheet

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between an SDS and an MSDS?

They serve the same purpose, but SDS is the newer standardised format with a fixed 16-section structure under the Globally Harmonized System. MSDS was the older, inconsistently formatted version, and workplaces were required to switch to SDS.

How many sections does an SDS have?

Sixteen, always in the same order, so you can jump straight to the part you need. Section 2 covers hazards, section 4 first aid, section 8 exposure controls and protection, and section 13 disposal.

Who has to provide an SDS?

The manufacturer, importer or supplier of the chemical must supply one, and the employer must keep it accessible to every worker who might be exposed. It has to be provided free of charge.

What is the meaning of SDS?

"SDS" (noun) means a safety data sheet: a standard document supplied with a chemical product that sets out its hazards, safe handling, storage, protective equipment, first aid and emergency measures.