Why is it important to follow a facility's safety data sheets (SDS) when handling chemicals?

Following a facility's safety data sheets (SDS) when handling chemicals is crucial primarily because it ensures safe handling and fosters awareness of hazards associated with those chemicals. SDS documents provide essential information such as the chemical's properties, potential health effects, safe handling practices, and emergency response measures. By adhering to the guidance outlined in the SDS, individuals can protect themselves and others from accidents, exposure, or chemical-related health issues. This awareness helps in implementing the necessary precautions and personal protective equipment to minimize risks in the workplace.

While compliance with storage regulations is important, it is a more specific aspect of safety compared to the comprehensive understanding of hazards provided by the SDS. Knowledge about chemical origins and verifying effectiveness are less pertinent to immediate safety concerns and do not address the necessary precautions for handling or potential emergency situations. Thus, the correct response emphasizes the importance of safe practices and awareness of hazards while working with chemicals.