What is the purpose of an MSDS?

The purpose of a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS), now more commonly referred to as a Safety Data Sheet (SDS), is primarily to provide comprehensive information about the physical and chemical properties of a hazardous material. This document includes essential data such as the substance's reactivity, toxicity, handling procedures, and storage protocols, which are critical for ensuring safe usage and compliance with safety regulations.

Having access to this information is vital for workers who handle hazardous substances, as it helps in assessing risks and implementing safety measures. By knowing the physical characteristics (such as boiling point, flash point, and solubility) and health effects of a material, responders and employees can make informed decisions about safety precautions and emergency responses in case of exposure or an incident.

The other choices, while relevant to safety and handling of hazardous materials, do not encapsulate the primary function of an MSDS as effectively as the correct answer. Emergency response contacts, transportation guidelines, and environmental impacts are important considerations, but they are secondary functions compared to the core focus on providing detailed information about the material itself.