What must an MSDS include to be useful for users of hazardous materials?

The inclusion of emergency response procedures in a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) is vital because it provides users with the necessary information to react appropriately in case of an incident involving hazardous materials. These procedures inform users about the steps they should take to ensure safety, mitigate risks, and manage emergencies effectively. This includes guidance on evacuation, first aid measures, firefighting measures, and personal protective equipment needed in case of exposure or spills.

While cost information, ingredient sources, and transportation instructions are relevant in various contexts, they are not primarily focused on the immediate safety and handling of hazardous materials, which is the foremost concern addressed by an MSDS. The primary purpose of an MSDS is to ensure that users are fully informed about the hazards associated with a material and the specific actions necessary to deal with emergencies, which makes emergency response procedures indispensable.