Hazardous Substances

• What are the requirements for using hazardous substances?
• What is an Safety Data Sheet (SDS)?
• Where can I find an SDS? (Chem Alert)
• What if I can't find an SDS on Chem Alert?
• How do I get a new SDS into Chem Alert?
• What if I want an SDS reviewed by Chem Alert?
• How do I manage my stock inventory?
• What are the requirements for working with carcinogenic substances?
• When are substances required to be labelled?
• Managing hazardous waste
• Managing dangerous goods

What are the requirements for using hazardous substances?

The University has developed guidelines for the safe use of hazardous substances outlining:

• Responsibilities
• Hazardous substances register
• Safety data sheets
• Labelling
• Risk control strategies
• Storage of hazardous substances
• Health surveillance and monitoring

Download the Working With Hazardous Substances Guidelines

Download the Hazardous substances risk assessment

Download the MSDS Folder Cover Sheet

What is an Safety Data Sheet (SDS)?

An SDS, previously called a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS), is a document that provides information on the properties of hazardous chemicals and how they affect health and safety in the workplace. The advice contained in an SDS includes information on the identity, health and chemical hazards, safe handling and storage, emergency procedures, and disposal considerations.  A SDS is an important tool for eliminating or minimising the risks associated with the use of hazardous chemicals in workplaces

Where can I find an SDS? (Chem Alert)

UOW utilises the online chemical database Chem Alert to:

• access Safety Data Sheets (SDS),
• print labels,
• record maximum stock levels as required by legislation for hazardous substances and dangerous goods, and
• print stock reports including stock holdings, storage incompatibility, hazardous substances, dangerous goods, health surveillance and placarding.

Chem Alert has an extensive collection of SDS's within its library which is available to all staff and students of the University at:  Chem Alert 2 Intranet

Off campus access is available at Chem Alert via UOW Library

Chem Alert setup requirements :

• Macintosh - Mozillla Firefox
• Windows - Internet Explorer (IE) Version 8 (preferred) NOTE: Chem Alert does not support IE Version 9.

Browser proxy settings are to be configured as per UOW web proxy configuration

Browser Pop up blockers are required to allow popups from Chem Alert (add rmt.com.au to Popup Blocker/Manager via Tools menu).

What if I can't find an SDS on Chem Alert?

Although there is an extensive library of SDS on Chem Alert you may not find the SDS with your initial search.

Firstly, check your search parameters.

• Change the search function to "contains" or break up the substance name into parts and select 'Add to search list'
• Search by ingredient or Manufacturer/Supplier

How do I get a new SDS into Chem Alert?

If you have purchased a new chemical or have an existing chemical which is not available on Chem Alert, request a soft copy of the SDS from the supplier and upload it as a custom product. 

Adding a Substance To Chem Alert Flow Chart

Chem Alert How To Guide

What if I want an SDS reviewed by Chem Alert?

If you have purchased a new chemical or have an existing chemical which is not available on Chem Alert, and you would like Chem Alert's toxicologists to review the SDS to provide further safety information, request a soft copy of the SDS from the supplier and send it by email to the OHS Unit . 

If you have the supplier's original SDS in hard copy form only then fax (ext 5361) or mail a copy to the OHS Unit.

If you are unable to contact the supplier please complete the Chemical Listing for Chem Alert and send by email to the OHS Unit .

Chem Alert will add an SDS to the library within 48 hours.

How do I manage my stock inventory?

If you need to manage chemical stock in the database for your area, eg add a new chemical or modify the quantities for an existing item, you will need a user account. Please contact the OHS Unit on 4365 for assistance.

Training is provided on the key aspects of Chem Alert. Click here for details : OHS Training Courses

What are the requirements for working with carcinogenic substances?

The OHS Regulation 2001 outlines specific carcinogenic substances which require notification and control prior to use. The University has developed the Use of Carcinogenic Chemicals Guidelines to help outline the necessary precautions when using these substances.

Download the Use of Carcinogenic Chemicals Guidelines

Download The WorkCover Work involving Use of Carcinogenic Substances - Notification Form

When are substances required to be labelled?

All containers containing any substance must be labelled in accordance with the UOW Working With Hazardous Substances Guidelines. The following labels can be used for made up solutions if the label is not available from ChemAlert:  

• Hazardous Substance Label 50-100ml
• Hazardous Substance Label 250ml
• Hazardous Substance Label 500ml
• Hazardous Substance Label Micro
• Non Hazardous Substance Label 50-100ml
• Non Hazardous Substance Label 250ml
• Non Hazardous Substance Label 500ml
• Non Hazardous Substance Label Micro