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Section 4

First-aid measures

Information Elements

  • Description of necessary first-aid measures, by routes of exposure (inhalation, ingestion, skin and eye contact)
  • Most important acute or delayed symptoms and effects
  • Indication of immediate medical attention and special treatment needed, if necessary

Most common non-compliances

  • The information on the most important symptoms and effects (acute or delayed) is missing or there is only reference to Section 11 (e.g. “See Section 11”).
  • There is only partial disclosure of the most important symptoms and effects, whether acute or delayed (i.e. either missing information on the symptoms, or on the effects).
  • The indication of immediate medical attention and special treatment does not provide the adequate level of response needed for the hazard classifications specified in Section 2.
  • Information on seeking immediate medical attention is missing, or is indicated as “no additional information available,” which is not appropriate based on the hazard classification of the product.

Tips

  • Necessary First-Aid Measures

    The recommended first-aid responses provided must be consistent with the classified hazards of the product and the description of the various toxic health effects provided respectively in Section 2 and Section 11 of the safety data sheet (SDS).

  • Most Important Symptoms and Effects

    The most important symptoms and effects (acute or delayed) for all classified health hazards must be provided. Simply repeating hazard statements or referring the reader to Section 11 of the SDS is not acceptable.
  • Information on clinical testing and medical monitoring for delayed effects that would be useful for health care professionals should be disclosed.

  • Immediate Medical Attention and Special Treatment

    Information describing the immediate medical attention and special treatment that may be necessary (e.g. Known antidotes and any contraindications) as a result of exposure to the product must be disclosed, if necessary.
  • The indication of immediate medical attention and special treatment must reflect the appropriate level of response when assessed with the information disclosed in Section 2.
    • For example, if the hazard statement in Section 2 states “Immediately call a Poison Centre or doctor,” then the disclosure of “Call a Poison Centre if you feel unwell” in Section 4 is not acceptable.