CMS SOM App. H, Tag V319

494.50(b)(1)

8.5 Environmental safety

The dialysis facility shall have written procedures for safe storage and handling of

chemicals used in reprocessing (see National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health

[NIOSH]/OSHA, 1980; Sax, 1979; material safety data sheets [MSDS]).

Interpretive Guidance § 494.50(b)(1)

In the United States, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration requires that Safety

Data Sheets (SDS), also known as Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) be readily available to

all employees for potentially harmful substances handled in the workplace under the Hazard

Communication regulation (OSHA, 29 CFR 1910.1200(g)). In 2012, the US adopted the 16

section Safety Data Sheet to replace Material Safety Data Sheets. This became effective on

December 1, 2013. For more information on hazard communication standards, see OSHA’s

Hazard Communication Standard: Safety Data Sheets.

Page 130 of 420

The dialysis facility must have written procedures relating to the safe storage and handling of all

chemicals used for reprocessing. The written procedures must be consistent with the SDS (also

called MSDS), provided by the chemical manufacturer or distributor.

Policy must address, and personnel must be knowledgeable of, the precautions for safe storage

and handling, the appropriate methods for chemical containment and cleanup, and emergency

procedures for both minor and major germicide spills.

These written procedures must be readily accessible to all employees in the facility.