MSDSs exist for pesticides, they are just hard to get. That’s because they are required for worker protection in the plants that make the pesticide, under the OSHA Hazard Communication rules. FIFRA trumps the labeling both inside and outside the workplace, and MSDSs are not required for pesticide applicators. I’ve sometimes called the pesticide manufacturer and gotten an MSDS or at least a full listing of ingredients.

This is a fairly important issue because the “inert” ingredients can be hazardous.

Killing bugs, presumably with an EPA registered pesticide, is not under the OSHA hazcom rules (pesticides are specifically exempted from this rule). This is a requirement of the EPA FIFRA pesticide rules. The exterminator is required by EPA to provide the LABEL to the homeowner/occupant. Not an (M)SDS.

I once asked the guy in Home Depot for an MSDS for some paint solvent I was going to buy & he looked at me like I was from Mars & had no idea what I was talking about. Said he never heard of it! (my daughter rolled her eyes and gave him the 'oh-oh wrong answer' look!)


Kim Gates Auletta
Lab Safety Specialist
EH&S    Z=6200
Stony Brook University
kim.auletta**At_Symbol_Here**stonybrook.edu
631-632-3032
FAX: 631-632-9683
EH&S Web site: http://www.stonybrook.edu/ehs/lab/

Remember to wash your hands!



From:        Dave Roberts <droberts**At_Symbol_Here**DEPAUW.EDU>
To:        DCHAS-L**At_Symbol_Here**MED.CORNELL.EDU
Date:        06/07/2012 07:26 AM
Subject:        [DCHAS-L] legal question on MSDS's
Sent by:        DCHAS-L Discussion List <dchas-l**At_Symbol_Here**MED.CORNELL.EDU>

---

What can I say, it's summer so I have time to catch up on some things
that have been building.

How does it work if a bug killing company (removing termites or
whatever) applies something in a household, and then gives an MSDS to
the home owners?  While I appreciate that they are warning them of the
hazards, what is the reason for doing such a thing?  Are they required
to warn people of the hazards, and are people expected to understand
what these documents mean?  I don't remember ever receiving an MSDS when
I bought something from a hardware store (though I know I could get one,
and of course I would know what it means, but I don't think my dad would
- but he would know who to ask).

Any thoughts on this would be appreciated.  I have been asked a question
on this and wanted to know some thoughts.

Thanks so much

Dave (again)