If an employer does not receive an SDS for a hazardous chemical, what must they do?

An employer is required to contact the supplier, manufacturer, or importer for the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) if they do not receive one for a hazardous chemical. The SDS is crucial because it provides comprehensive information about the chemical's hazards, handling, storage, and emergency measures. By reaching out to the supplier, the employer ensures compliance with OSHA regulations and promotes a safe workplace by obtaining essential information about risks associated with the chemical. This step helps maintain an informed workplace, as all employees need access to safety data to make safe decisions regarding the use of hazardous chemicals.

The other options do not align with OSHA regulations or proper safety protocol. Discarding the hazardous chemical would not be a practical or safe solution without understanding its risks and implications. Reporting to OSHA immediately is not necessary because the failure to receive an SDS is typically first addressed by contacting the supplier. Conducting internal research to create a temporary SDS is also not acceptable as it may not comply with the specific requirements and format that an official SDS must meet.