faq

1.	What is an MSDS?
	MSDS. Material safety data sheet. An MSDS is a fact sheet that summarizes the information about the manufacturer or importer of the material, identification of the material, physical and chemical properties, risks of fire or explosion, reactivity, risks to health and first aid, leaks or spills, emergency situations, transportation and handling, ecology, special precautions. In Spanish these are called HDS, Hojas de Datos de Seguridad. The Standard ANSI Z400.1-2004 Hazardous Industrial Chemicals - Material Safety Data Sheets - Preparation -- is the preferred format for MSDS in the USA.
2.	Why do we need MSDS in Spanish?
	Spanish is a very commonly heard language in the workplace in the USA. Spanish speaking workers handling chemicals or hazardous materials must be able to inform themselves on the proper handling, storage, and emergency response, as well as first aid.
3.	Is this an electronic translation?
	No, if you have read several MSDS, you may have noticed that there are many similarities, terms and words that are used on many MSDS. We translated the terminology from hundreds of MSDS and created a database of translated terms. When you choose, for example, "rinse eyes for 15 minutes with running water" - our database simply substitutes the phrase that we have already translated. In effect, you are writing a new MSDS in Spanish with the assistance of a database.
4.	Why not just translate our MSDS to Spanish?
	You can. Most technical translators qualified to translate MSDS charge 10 cents (US. Dollars) to 17 cents a word to translate an MSDS. (We charge 12 cents) A single MSDS can easily cost $200. We offer a low cost solution to the cost of translating MSDS, and a way to prepare many MSDS in a fraction of the time required for translation.
5.	Can I use the MSDS prepared with this tool in Mexico?
	Mexico (see question 1) requires that your MSDS comply with the Mexican standard NOM-018-STPS-2000. The format is not restricted but you must include the 12 sections from the Mexican standard in your MSDS. Our format follows the Mexican Standard exactly. For Mexican MSDS please go to www.msds-mexico.com
6.	*Can I obtain a copy of ANSI Z400.1-2004* Hazardous Industrial Chemicals - Material Safety Data Sheets - Preparation**
	Yes you can purchase the standard at http://webstore.ansi.org/ansidocstore/default.asp?
7.	We have English speaking personnel in our facility that can read English MSDS. Isn't that adequate?
	MSDS in Spanish may or may not be required in your State, but they will certainly contribute to a safer working environment.
8.	I cannot speak any Spanish - will I be able to prepare MSDS in Spanish with your online tool?
	Yes, if you can read your MSDS in English and fill out the online form accurately, you can prepare an MSDS in Spanish. You don't have to speak Spanish.
9.	Can I download a program to my computer?
	No, you must use the program online with a User name and Password.
10.	How to I get started?
	Click on Cost. Pay with a credit card and you will receive a User Name and Password by email. We charge 39.95 for 30 days or 59.95 for 1 year.
11.	What if I want to add additional information to the MSDS or a different disclaimer?
	You can add additional sections and other information to your MSDS - you can translate it yourself or email it to us for translation. We charge 10 cents (US dlls) per word - we will translate it and email it back to you. If you are going to prepare many MSDS, we can customize an MSDS writer for you with you proprietary information and logo. (contact us for a quotation)
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