What is the purpose of a material safety data sheet (MSDS)?

A material safety data sheet (MSDS) is a critical document that serves the primary purpose of informing users about potential hazards associated with a specific chemical product. This document contains comprehensive information about the product's properties, the health and safety risks it poses, recommended handling and storage procedures, emergency measures in case of an accident, and first aid recommendations. Knowing the potential hazards enables workers to take appropriate precautions and ensure a safe working environment, which is essential in industries like painting and refinishing where exposure to hazardous materials is common.

The other options do not accurately reflect the intended purpose of an MSDS. While product compatibility, sales pitches, and pricing information may be relevant in different contexts, they do not encompass the fundamental role of an MSDS, which is safety and hazard communication. Understanding these hazards and having proper procedures in place is crucial for maintaining safety standards in any workplace that involves hazardous materials.