MSDS Authoring Fundamentals: Understanding Section 8.2 Exposure Controls
- Innovative Services
- 6 days ago
- 7 min read
MSDS Authoring Fundamentals: Understanding Section 8.2 Exposure Controls
Professional MSDS authoring requires a thorough understanding of Section 8.2, which provides detailed information about the measures necessary to minimize worker exposure to hazardous substances. While Section 8.1 typically covers exposure limit values (OELs, PELs, TLVs), Section 8.2 focuses on the practical controls that should be implemented to maintain exposures below these limits.
Effective MSDS authoring for Section 8.2 must address multiple exposure control strategies, with each control option specifically tailored to the hazardous components identified in Section 3.# MSDS Authoring: Complete Guide to Section 8.2 Exposure Controls
Introduction to MSDS Authoring
MSDS authoring is a specialized skill that requires detailed knowledge of chemical hazards and regulatory requirements. Safety Data Sheets (SDS), formerly known as Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS), are crucial documents that provide comprehensive information about hazardous chemicals and substances. Among the sixteen standard sections required in professional MSDS authoring, Section 8.2 focusing on exposure controls is particularly critical for ensuring workplace safety.
The effectiveness of Section 8.2 in MSDS authoring relies heavily on its integration with Section 3 (Composition/Information on Ingredients), as proper exposure controls must be specifically tailored to the hazardous components identified in the formulation. This interdependence is a cornerstone of MSDS authoring that is often overlooked or inadequately addressed.
This MSDS authoring guide will help safety professionals create accurate, compliant, and effective exposure control information with particular emphasis on establishing proper connections between chemical composition and protective measures.
MSDS Authoring Visual Guide: Section 8.2 Essentials
The following diagram illustrates the key components and relationships in MSDS authoring for Section 8.2. This visual representation shows how Section 3 (Composition) directly influences the exposure controls required in Section 8.2, and how the different control categories interconnect.
Key Components in MSDS Authoring for Section 8.2
Engineering Controls in MSDS Authoring
When performing MSDS authoring, this subsection should detail the engineering measures that should be implemented to reduce exposure:
Local exhaust ventilation requirements
Process enclosures
Isolation systems
Automated handling systems
General ventilation specifications
Specialized equipment recommendations
Example MSDS authoring language: "Provide local exhaust ventilation or process enclosure to maintain airborne concentrations below exposure limits. Ensure adequate general ventilation (typically 10 air changes per hour)."
MSDS Authoring for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Based on Section 3 Composition
MSDS authoring for Section 8.2 PPE recommendations must directly correspond to the hazardous substances identified in Section 3. This critical relationship ensures that workers are protected from the specific chemicals present in the product.
MSDS Authoring: Linking Section 3 to PPE Requirements
For effective MSDS authoring, consider the following for each hazardous component listed in Section 3:
Physical state (gas, liquid, solid, particulate)
Concentration/percentage
Specific hazard classifications
Route of exposure (inhalation, dermal, ocular)
Example MSDS authoring approach: "For Product X containing 15% toluene (CAS 108-88-3), 5% methyl ethyl ketone (CAS 78-93-3), and 2% titanium dioxide (CAS 13463-67-7), the following PPE is required..."
MSDS Authoring for Respiratory Protection
MSDS authoring must specify respirator types with reference to specific contaminants
Filter requirements matched to chemical properties in Section 3
Protection factors based on exposure assessments
Relevant standards: EN 136, EN 140, EN 143, EN 14387
Example MSDS authoring language: "For processes generating mist/vapor from Product X (Section 3: contains 15% toluene), use respirator with Type A filter (EN 14387) for organic vapors with boiling point >65°C. If concentration exceeds 10× the OEL, use full-face respirator with Type A filter (EN 136)."
MSDS Authoring for Hand Protection
MSDS authoring should include glove material selection based on permeation data for specific chemicals
Breakthrough times for each hazardous component identified in Section 3
Material thickness requirements
Relevant standards: EN 374-1, EN 374-2, EN 16523-1, EN 374-4
Example MSDS authoring language: *"For handling Product X (Section 3: contains organic solvents and corrosive acids):
Primary contact: Butyl rubber gloves, 0.7mm thickness, breakthrough time >480 minutes for toluene per EN 16523-1
Splash protection: Nitrile rubber gloves, 0.4mm thickness, breakthrough time >30 minutes for methyl ethyl ketone per EN 16523-1
Gloves must meet Category III requirements per EN ISO 21420:2020"*
MSDS Authoring for Eye/Face Protection
MSDS authoring should specify protection level based on splash/dust hazard from specific chemicals
Standards based on physical/chemical properties identified in Section 3
Special considerations for corrosives or highly toxic substances
Relevant standards: EN 166, EN 167, EN 168, EN 170, EN 172
Example MSDS authoring language: "Due to the presence of alkaline corrosives (Section 3: sodium hydroxide >1%), wear close-fitting chemical goggles meeting EN 166:2001 with 3 (liquid droplets/splashes) marking and face shield with 3-B (splashes of liquids) marking."
MSDS Authoring for Skin/Body Protection
MSDS authoring must include material selection based on permeation data
Chemical resistance appropriate for specific substances in Section 3
Type classification per relevant standards
Relevant standards: EN 13034, EN 14605, EN ISO 13982, EN 1149, EN ISO 14116
Example MSDS authoring language: *"For operations involving Product X (Section 3: contains skin sensitizers and corrosives):
Type 3 chemical protective clothing meeting EN 14605 for liquid-tight connections
Chemical resistant apron meeting EN 14605 for partial body protection
Acid-resistant footwear
When handling heated material, use heat-resistant clothing meeting EN ISO 11612"*
Environmental Exposure Controls in MSDS Authoring
This often-overlooked component in MSDS authoring addresses measures to prevent environmental contamination:
Emission control technologies
Containment requirements
Waste handling procedures
Monitoring recommendations
Example MSDS authoring language: "Prevent release to the environment by using appropriate containment systems. Emissions from ventilation systems should comply with local environmental regulations."
MSDS Authoring Best Practices for Section 8.2
1. MSDS Authoring: Establish Direct Connection to Section 3
Professional MSDS authoring always creates a clear linkage between Section 3 (Composition) and Section 8.2 (Exposure Controls):
Poor MSDS authoring example: "Use respiratory protection when handling this product."Better MSDS authoring example: "Due to the presence of crystalline silica (14808-60-7) at 2.5% (Section 3), respiratory protection with minimum P2 filter efficiency (EN 143) is required during dust-generating operations. If concentration exceeds 10× the OEL value of 0.1 mg/m³, upgrade to P3 protection."
Include a table or matrix for complex formulations when performing MSDS authoring:
Component (Section 3) | Concentration | Hazard | Required PPE | Standard |
Toluene (108-88-3) | 15% | Inhalation, skin | Type A filter respirator, butyl rubber gloves | EN 14387, EN 374-1 |
NaOH (1310-73-2) | 5% | Corrosive | Chemical goggles, Type 3 protection | EN 166, EN 14605 |
2. MSDS Authoring: Be Specific and Precise with PPE Specifications
Quality MSDS authoring avoids vague statements like "use appropriate PPE." Instead, it specifies exact protection levels with reference to applicable standards.
Poor MSDS authoring example: "Use suitable gloves."Better MSDS authoring example: *"For handling Product X containing organic solvents (Section 3: 15% toluene, 5% MEK), wear chemical protective gloves tested according to EN 16523-1:2015 with the following specifications:
Material: Butyl rubber
Minimum thickness: 0.7mm
Breakthrough time: >480 minutes for toluene, >120 minutes for MEK
Protection class: Category III according to EN ISO 21420:2020
Replace gloves at first sign of degradation"*
2. Consider All Exposure Routes
Address all potential exposure routes (inhalation, skin contact, eye contact, ingestion) with appropriate controls.
3. Prioritize Controls According to the Hierarchy
Follow the hierarchy of controls:
Elimination/Substitution (mention if feasible)
Engineering Controls
Administrative Controls
Personal Protective Equipment
4. Reference Applicable Standards in Detail
Cite relevant standards for PPE and other controls with specific application details:
European/International Standards
EN/ISO General Standards:
EN ISO 21420:2020: General requirements for protective gloves
EN ISO 13688:2013: Protective clothing - General requirements
EN ISO 20345:2022: Personal protective equipment - Safety footwear
Respiratory Protection Standards:
EN 136:1998: Full face masks
EN 140:1998: Half and quarter masks
EN 143:2000: Particle filters
EN 14387:2004+A1:2008: Gas filters and combined filters
EN 529:2005: Guide for selection and use
Hand Protection Standards:
EN ISO 374-1:2016: Terminology and performance requirements for chemical risks
EN 374-2:2014: Determination of resistance to penetration
EN 16523-1:2015+A1:2018: Permeation by liquid chemicals (replaces EN 374-3)
EN 374-4:2013: Determination of resistance to degradation by chemicals
EN 374-5:2016: Terminology and performance requirements for microorganisms risks
Eye/Face Protection Standards:
EN 166:2001: Personal eye protection - specifications
EN 167:2001: Optical test methods
EN 168:2001: Non-optical test methods
EN 170:2002: Ultraviolet filters
EN 172:1994: Solar protection filters for industrial use
Body Protection Standards:
EN 13034:2005+A1:2009: Type 6 chemical protective clothing
EN 14605:2005+A1:2009: Type 3 and 4 chemical protective clothing
EN ISO 13982-1:2004+A1:2010: Type 5 chemical protective clothing
EN 1149-5:2018: Electrostatic properties
EN ISO 14116:2015: Limited flame spread materials
US Standards:
ANSI/ISEA Z87.1: Eye and face protection
ANSI/ISEA 105: Hand protection
ANSI/ISEA 107: High-visibility safety apparel
Australia/New Zealand Standards:
AS/NZS 1716: Respiratory protective devices
AS/NZS 2161: Occupational protective gloves
AS/NZS 1337: Eye and face protection
Always specify the exact protection level required within each standard (e.g., Type 3 vs Type 6 chemical protection, Category I vs Category III gloves, Filter class P2 vs P3).
5. MSDS Authoring for Special Populations
Professional MSDS authoring includes additional precautions for vulnerable populations:
Pregnant workers
Workers with certain medical conditions
Workers with allergies or sensitivities
6. MSDS Authoring: Include Monitoring Recommendations
Comprehensive MSDS authoring specifies when exposure monitoring should be conducted and what methods to use.
Example MSDS authoring language: "Conduct personal air monitoring according to NIOSH Method 1501 when handling large quantities or during high-risk operations."
Common Mistakes to Avoid in MSDS Authoring
MSDS Authoring Mistake: Overreliance on PPE: Focusing only on PPE without addressing engineering controls
MSDS Authoring Mistake: Generic recommendations: Using boilerplate language without substance-specific guidance
MSDS Authoring Mistake: Omitting environmental controls: Failing to address environmental exposure prevention
MSDS Authoring Mistake: Inconsistency with other sections: Contradicting information in Section 7 (Handling and Storage)
MSDS Authoring Mistake: Outdated information: Not updating control measures based on current scientific knowledge
Regulatory Compliance Considerations for MSDS Authoring
GHS/REACH Requirements for MSDS Authoring
Under the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) and REACH regulations, MSDS authoring for Section 8.2 must:
Be substance-specific
Address all relevant exposure scenarios
Be consistent with the exposure assessment in the Chemical Safety Report (when applicable)
Include appropriate risk management measures
MSDS Authoring for OSHA HazCom 2012 (US)
OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard requires MSDS authoring to include:
Appropriate engineering controls
Specific PPE recommendations
Consistency with Section 7 information
Conclusion: Excellence in MSDS Authoring
Properly authored Section 8.2 exposure controls information is vital for protecting workers and the environment. By following the MSDS authoring guidelines in this post, SDS authors can create clear, compliant, and effective documentation that helps users implement appropriate risk management measures. Remember that the ultimate goal of MSDS authoring is to communicate practical information that enables safe handling and use of hazardous substances.
Successful MSDS authoring requires attention to detail, technical knowledge of both chemical hazards and protective measures, and a commitment to worker safety. By focusing on the connection between Section 3 composition information and Section 8.2 exposure controls, MSDS authors can create more effective and useful safety documentation.
Comentarios