In our previous blog, we emphasized the crucial role of Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and the importance of COSHH assessments for workplace safety. Today, we delve deeper into the automated extraction of key data from manufacturer SDS using SdbHub.
SdbHub, a cloud-based machine learning solution, offers comprehensive extraction of all crucial data from SDS, making it a preferred choice for process automation. Its innovative approach, including human-like document processing powered by the D2AE-Engine using artificial intelligence, ensures highly accurate and scalable extraction, not only for SDS but also for various document types including invoices, purchase orders, product labels or technical datasheets.
This technology is particularly suited for extracting COSHH-relevant data from Safety Data Sheets. Let’s examine the steps involved in a COSHH assessment:
- Hazard Identification: Recognizing hazardous substances from product labels and safety data sheets, considering workplace-generated hazards, and acknowledging substances with workplace exposure limits (WELs).
- Risk Assessment: Evaluating potential harm, exposure routes, and duration for individuals, involving all relevant parties, and reviewing existing controls while considering additional measures.
- Risk Control: Implementing preventive measures like elimination and ventilation, establishing protocols for access and storage, providing necessary personal protective equipment (PPE), educating workers, documenting assessment findings and controls, and regularly reviewing and updating assessments to address workplace changes effectively.
Extracting specific SDS data, which is often manually laborious, becomes crucial during the identification phase. This task is perceived as monotonous, repetitive, and therefore boring. It is also highly error-prone.
So, what data do we extract from Safety Data Sheets during the identification phase? We provide even more data, but below is an excerpt.
- Supplier Information
- SDS Version Number
- Revision Date
- Substance Name and CAS Number
- Emergency Telephone Numbers
- STOT Statements, Hazard Statements and Pictograms
- First Aid Instructions
- Safe Storage Recommendations
- Exposure Limits (STEL/TWA)
- Personal Protective Equipment Recommendations
- Physical and Chemical Properties (e.g., Melting Point, Flash Point, Boiling Point)
- Conditions to Avoid
- Incompatible Materials
- Hazardous Decomposition Products
By automating the extraction of these data points, SdbHub streamlines the hazard identification process, allowing safety experts to focus on more intricate aspects of risk assessment and control, ultimately enhancing workplace safety standards. Let’s schedule a meeting to explore how SdbHub empowers you COSHH assessment process.
