This article has been translated with machine translation.
Short answer
There is no general requirement to update a Safety Data Sheet at regular intervals. The obligation to provide and keep an SDS up to date only applies to products that are classified as hazardous under the CLP Regulation (Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008).
Background
A common misconception is that a Safety Data Sheet "expires" after a certain number of years, for example three years. This is not correct. The REACH Regulation states that suppliers must provide an updated SDS if the classification, composition, or recommended safety measures change — but there is no requirement for periodic updates based on age alone.
Products that are not classified
If a product is not classified as a hazardous substance or mixture (Section 2.1 of the SDS states e.g. "Not a hazardous substance or mixture"), there is:
- No requirement for the supplier to produce an SDS
- No requirement to update or maintain an existing SDS
- No requirement for you as a customer to request a newer SDS
Many suppliers still choose to provide an SDS for non-classified products, to clearly communicate that the product is not hazardous. This is a voluntary commitment, not a legal requirement.
What applies to classified products?
For products that are classified, the supplier must provide an updated SDS without delay when:
- New information on hazards or protective measures becomes available
- An authorisation is granted or made subject to conditions (REACH Annex XIV)
- A restriction enters into force (REACH Annex XVII)
How do I check whether my product is classified?
Open the product's Safety Data Sheet in iChemistry and look at Section 2.1 – Classification of the substance or mixture. If it states "Not a hazardous substance or mixture", the product is not classified and no update requirements apply.
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