With the aid of appropriate technology and an in-depth understanding of the requirements, facilities can now manage chemical safety without difficulty. Because of this, it’s essential to rely on the appropriate SDS management system to guarantee safety and time savings. However, choosing the right one may be confusing when there are options to choose from. Nonetheless, the process of decision-making is not difficult with the correct information. 

Facilities must also comply with the requirements of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the Department of Transportation (DOT). This involves sharing crucial information about the hazardous chemicals they handle to fulfill specific requirements. Thus, only cutting-edge technology can provide simple, error-free access to all of those data.

Many organizations, such as educational institutions, manufacturing plants, laboratories, etc, may have to deal with many types of chemicals. Not all of them are hazardous. However, keeping track of such small yet crucial details will be easier with the proper SDS management. But how would you know what’s your right fit? 

Continue reading the blog to find some key facts that will help you identify the ideal SDS management system for your facility.

Key Features of an Advanced SDS Management System

  1. Proper Retrieval Power
    The purpose behind using any SDS management is to quickly search all the required data. That’s why the advanced one will always have this particular ability. Moreover, facilities often have to locate SDS documents for various reasons. For this reason, organizations must look for systems with robust search and retrieval functionalities. Thus, finding out crucial details regarding the chemicals becomes easier.
  2. A Centralized Database
    The system must also give access to a centralized database to ensure proper data storage. Besides, it also enables facilities to organize all SDS data in the right way. Thus, keeping all documents in one accessible location is not at all difficult. So, it doesn’t just store information but also acts as a perfect tool for retrieving information quickly. Above all, it also reduces the risk of storing duplicate or outdated documents or information.
  3. Advanced Search is Possible
    A quick search of SDS is no longer a dream. With this advanced system, facilities can now conduct advanced searches from anywhere. They can also customize the search by choosing documents in their preferred languages. Thus, it’s not just finding data but getting easy access to the right information. 
  4. Customization Option
    To save time and speed up the process, facilities need more options to customize the search and data storage process. This is necessary, as each organization has specific requirements. That’s why advanced software is built to meet these requirements. For instance, this may include customizable fields, reporting capabilities, or user permissions.
  5. Integration with Chemical Inventory
    Facilities often have to provide updates on chemical usage and details regarding the storage process. They also need to share the location of the chemicals to avoid errors. That’s why choosing software that can be integrated with a chemical inventory would be ideal. This integration makes real-time tracking of inserted data simpler.
  6. Easy Label Generations
    Getting the right container level may be one of the tedious tasks as it has to be done carefully. However, with this type of software, this task can also be simplified. After all, it helps generate free secondary container levels without spending much time. The search is seamless for all of the in-house members to ensure their safety and awareness.
  7. A Glossary for the Users
    Advanced software will always have something advanced for its users. After all, it cares for the user and ensures safety at each step. That’s why, apart from providing details regarding the chemicals, it will also share some more useful details. Familiarizing the users with certain specific terms is also important. That’s why some SDS management comes with a glossary to educate its users with certain terms.
  8. Accessibility and Mobile Support
    Modern users prefer convenience, and that’s why they prepare their smartphones for easy access to various services. Keeping this in mind, modern SDS management is developed. It’s easily accessible from anywhere using any smart device. So, users won’t just have to rely on desktops or laptops to get crucial information and updates. Thus, it ensures flexibility and convenience for users to provide the best support.
  9. Receive Auto Updates
    Staying updated with time is necessary but can be difficult without the proper support. But with this software, users can rest assured that setting the cabinet for the auto-update is possible. Moreover, users can also expect to receive alerts even if they choose manual updates.

How do you streamline workflow with the SDS Management System?

  1. Improved Compliance
    Facilities may be subject to fines for violating the regulations established by the government. Of course, agencies can stay away from it simply by choosing proper aids like SDS management. It allows centralize the SDS documents and provides easy access to them. Additionally, it uses automated compliance alerts to make sure the company is adhering to regulatory requirements. Thus, they can easily avoid paying penalties.
  2. Improved Efficiency
     It does not just act as a helpful tool to ensure safety or share information. Facilities can rely on it to improve their efficiency with a streamlined search. It saves time and effort and allows users to get fast access to the correct information. Thus, users can complete their jobs by maintaining them more safely and effectively. 
  3. Reduced Risks
    Facilities that work around harmful chemicals don’t need to inform the public of possible risks. They also need to ensure the safety of their employees by making them aware of all the dangers. With online SDS management, facilities can reduce risks by giving access to updated SDS documents. Also, its chemical inventory educates the users properly so that they understand their risks well. This way, it minimizes the risk of accidents, spills, and exposure incidents.
  4. Improved Safety Protocol
    It also helps promote a safety culture not just within the company but also within the area around it. With easy access to vital information, employees can stay updated about the risks and know what to do. Thus, it’s also a helpful tool for educating and training the company’s in-house members. 

How to Make the Right Choice?

  1. Understand and Assess Your Need
    Not every software suits the company, and you’ll understand this by evaluating your specific requirements. In simple terms, identify your company’s requirements and challenges related to SDS management. As you start your evaluation, keep in mind the size of your organization and the type and volume of chemicals you handle. Moreover, don’t forget about the regulatory compliance requirements and the recent workflow processes.
  2. Conduct Thorough Research
    We come across the right solutions only after conducting thorough and proper research. That’s why, before you start looking for an SDS management solution, start doing research. It will keep you informed about the latest options available in the market. Also, look for systems that offer features that align with your company’s needs and requirements. For instance, look for features such as centralized document storage, advanced search, and compliance alerts.
  3. Evaluate Features and Functionality
    Before you make any final decisions, make sure to review the features of all the available options. Of course, you should do this once you’ve identified the potential SDS management systems to support your agency. What factors to consider? Well, prioritize user-friendliness while choosing scalability, customization, and mobile accessibility. As a result, you can select a solution that is both cutting-edge and leaves room for future development.
  4. Check Compliance:
    You’ll have to choose a solution that complies with relevant regulatory standards. This will ensure that users get all the facilities they need. It’ll also generate the required SDS documents and labels. Thus, users will get what they need simply by choosing the right tool.
  5. Check Customer Reviews
    The decision-making process will be more straightforward if you check the customer reviews. Once you choose software, make sure to check what customers have to say about the product and its services. Make the final decision once you get answers to all your questions after reviewing the customer feedback. 

Endnote

An SDS management system may be the perfect solution for facilities seeking proper assistance. That’s why choosing the right software is necessary. Keep in mind the tips we have shared here for your benefit. Each point will guide you to make the right decision. So, streamline your workflow by choosing the right fit and enjoy easy chemical safety management.