Is an MSDS the same as an SDS?

They serve the same purpose, but an SDS follows the GHS 16-section format with GHS classifications, while an MSDS follows an older, less standardised format.

Is an MSDS still acceptable?

Not in GHS-aligned markets. In the United States, the transition to the SDS format was completed in 2016, so hazardous chemicals need an SDS.

Does an MSDS to SDS conversion just change the format?

No. You must also reclassify the product under GHS, because the hazard classes and criteria differ from older systems.

← All guides

October 10, 2026

SDS vs MSDS: What Changed and Why Old MSDS Documents Are Obsolete

The difference between an MSDS and an SDS: the move to the GHS 16-section format, what changed, and why legacy MSDS documents should be replaced.

MSDS stands for Material Safety Data Sheet, the older name for the document now called a Safety Data Sheet (SDS). The new name came with the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS), which standardised the document's content and format worldwide.

The main differences

Format: MSDS formats varied by supplier. Many followed an older 8-section or 16-section ANSI layout, but there was no single required order. An SDS has exactly 16 sections in a fixed order.
Classification: MSDS documents used older national hazard classifications. An SDS uses GHS hazard classes and categories.
Label alignment: an SDS carries signal words, hazard statements, precautionary statements and pictograms that match the product label. An MSDS often did not.
Terminology: GHS uses harmonised phrases and codes, which makes documents comparable across countries.

Is an MSDS still valid?

In jurisdictions that have adopted GHS, including the United States, EU, UK, Canada and Australia, hazardous chemicals must be supported by an SDS in the GHS format. In the United States, OSHA aligned its Hazard Communication Standard with GHS in 2012 and the transition period ended in 2016. A document titled MSDS that has not been updated to the GHS format should be replaced, and in practice it is usually also out of date in its classification.

How to convert an MSDS to an SDS

Collect current composition data for the product, including CAS numbers and concentrations.
Reclassify the product under current GHS criteria. Do not copy the old classification.
Rebuild the document in the 16-section order, deriving the label elements from the new classification.
Check the destination-market rules and language, then record the revision date in Section 16.

You can find the section-by-section content in the 16 sections of an SDS explained.

Why the old term persists

People still say MSDS out of habit, and some suppliers have not updated their templates. If you receive a document called an MSDS from a supplier, ask for the current SDS.

Frequently asked questions

Is an MSDS the same as an SDS?: They serve the same purpose, but an SDS follows the GHS 16-section format with GHS classifications, while an MSDS follows an older, less standardised format.
Is an MSDS still acceptable?: Not in GHS-aligned markets. In the United States, the transition to the SDS format was completed in 2016, so hazardous chemicals need an SDS.
Does an MSDS to SDS conversion just change the format?: No. You must also reclassify the product under GHS, because the hazard classes and criteria differ from older systems.

Prepare your own Safety Data Sheets

SDS Desk calculates GHS classifications from sourced data and gives you a reviewable 16-section SDS and hazard labels. 7-day free trial.

Start free trial