Which document is crucial for communicating hazards in the workplace?

Safety Data Sheets (SDS) play a critical role in communicating hazards in the workplace because they provide detailed information about the properties and hazards associated with chemicals that employees may be exposed to. Each SDS includes essential information such as potential health effects, safe handling instructions, emergency procedures, and first aid measures. This standardized format ensures that workers understand the risks and know how to protect themselves effectively when working with hazardous substances.

Employers must ensure that SDS are readily accessible to all employees, allowing them to make informed decisions regarding the use of particular chemicals. Moreover, their presence supports compliance with OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard, which mandates that all hazardous chemicals be properly labeled and that employees have access to SDS.

While other documents like incident reports and workplace safety posters contribute to overall safety communication within an organization, they do not provide the comprehensive and detailed hazard-specific guidance that SDS offer for chemical safety.