A document providing information on the hazards, handling precautions, and emergency procedures for a chemical or dangerous cargo.
In practice
The chief mate reviews the MSDS for all dangerous goods before loading, identifying incompatibilities with other cargo already on board, the required stowage category, and the emergency schedule (EmS) number from the IMDG Code. On chemical tankers, the cargo officer uses the MSDS to plan pre-loading tank preparation, select compatible gaskets and sealants, and identify the personal protective equipment required for cargo operations. The OOW should know the location of all MSDS on board and be able to access the relevant sheet rapidly in an emergency. MSDS information feeds directly into the Ship's Emergency Response (SERS) procedures and muster card details.
Regulatory detail & full definition
A Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS)—also referred to in modern terminology as a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) under the Globally Harmonised System (GHS)—is a document provided by the manufacturer or shipper of a chemical or dangerous cargo that describes its physical and chemical properties, health hazards, handling precautions, protective equipment requirements, storage conditions, and emergency response procedures. The IMDG Code requires MSDS documentation for dangerous goods carried by sea, and the IBC Code (International Bulk Chemical Code) similarly requires product information sheets for chemical tanker cargoes. The CTU Code specifies that MSDS must accompany cargo transport units containing hazardous materials.
The chief mate reviews the MSDS for all dangerous goods before loading, identifying incompatibilities with other cargo already on board, the required stowage category, and the emergency schedule (EmS) number from the IMDG Code. On chemical tankers, the cargo officer uses the MSDS to plan pre-loading tank preparation, select compatible gaskets and sealants, and identify the personal protective equipment required for cargo operations. The OOW should know the location of all MSDS on board and be able to access the relevant sheet rapidly in an emergency. MSDS information feeds directly into the Ship's Emergency Response (SERS) procedures and muster card details.