The supplier or importer is responsible for providing this document for each product, with details on the identity of the substance, health hazard information, and precautions for safe use and handling. If an MSDS is not supplied, ask for one - they should be supplied on request. The Act entitles to elect safety and health representatives to represent and inform them on issues involving their safety and health, to consult with employers on resolving those issues, and to assist in their resolution. WorkSafe Chemicals and hazardous substances in the workplace need not be dangerous if used safely. Awareness of possible risks, even from ordinary substances, can help save sickness, discomfort and lost productivity.
Information is the key to awareness of hazardous substances.
With proper information and training, safe precautions can be taken. The Occupational Safety and Health Act 1984 requires employers to provide information and training to employees to enable them to work in a way that does not expose them to hazards. Consultation on the information and training needs of employees, and the control measures to be adopted, needs to take place between employers and employees or their elected safety and health representatives. Consultation and co-operation between employers and employees is the key to all safety and health matters, and it is also a requirement of the Occupational Safety and Health Act 1984. Employers are required to provide a working environment in which employees are not exposed to hazards.