2 documents you must hand over to your customer
The safety data list and the instructions for use are two rather important documents that should accompany the sales packaging of many products. When is the safety data list necessary, and when do you not need to attach it to the product? Are there cases when it is unnecessary to include an instruction for use with the product?
Wood varnish products must also be accompanied by a safety data list
Paints, varnishes or thinners for example. These are examples of the products which must have by a safety data list provided by the producer or supplier, because all hazardous substances and compounds must be accompanied by this document.
It is sufficient to provide the distributors with a safety data list in electronic form - i.e. through the B2B portal, for instance. The dealer will then provide it to the customer upon request.
Although this documents is mandatory for hazardous substances and compounds only, producers often attach it to all chemical products.
Information about composition, storage or transport is a must
The safety data list makes the customer aware of the product risks or of the actions to be taken if first aid is needed. All details to be included in the document are specified in EU Regulation No. 1907/2006 concerning the European Chemicals Agency (REACH).
In the Czech Republic, all the information must naturally be provided in Czech.
Instructions for use are needed (nearly) everywhere
While safety data list must be attached by the producer or distributor to hazardous substances only, instructions for use may not be missing for any product. The only exception is allowed for products the use of which is absolutely clear.
Consequently, you do not need to attach instructions for use to a shovel, work trousers or rubber boots. On contrary, it certainly may not be missing in case of a chains saw or a glue.
In order for the information to be of any benefit, it must be as specific as possible, in particular in the part concerning the protective equipment. It is not sufficient to indicate that the user must use protective gloves. It is essential to specify, for instance, the material of the gloves, or the thickness of protective clothing.
Advice also on the maintenance
As already apparent from the name, the instructions must include advice on how the product should be correctly used. In addition, it must also include information about:
- correct maintenance,
- any risk associated with incorrect use of the product,
- the product manufacturer, importer or supplier,
- description, weight, quantity or dimensions (if required by the nature of the product or the form of sale),
- materials used in the main product components,
- specific procedures or rules of use, if appropriate.
Similarly to the safety data sheet, instructions for use must also be in the Czech language. The manufacturer or distributor, who has introduced the product to the market, is once again responsible for the correct wording thereof and the information therein.
The dealer provides the unmodified instructions in writing to the customer. The only exception is the B2B sector where the instructions can be sent by e-mail or made accessible online for download, for example.