May manufacturers supply SDSs via the Internet as an alternative to paper or other SDS formats?

Some manufacturers may consider SDS information to be proprietary, and would not want to post this information for public access. Other manufacturers, however, have taken advantage of the Internet and use this as a vehicle for the downstream flow of hazard information. OSHA has provided guidance, as follows, for manufacturers who use the Internet to supply SDSs to downstream users:

• Document that customers have access to the Internet and are willing to retrieve SDSs from this source.
• Provide these customers with a letter giving them the Internet address of all SDSs.
• Ensure that the most current SDS is always available on the Internet. In the event of a significant change in health hazard information, some positive means of contact, such as a letter or e-mail notification, stating that the SDS has changed and the updated SDS is available would be required.
• In the event of system failure or on-line access delays, a reliable back-up for quickly receiving the required information must be available.