Direct answer: Give every source, decision and released document a named Australian owner.
Record the role per SKU
Domestic manufacture, finished-product import and local distribution can create different information ownership.
Own Australian classification
Foreign documents can support review but do not transfer the importer’s responsibility for Australian compliance.
Prepare and maintain the SDS
Keep information correct and current, conduct required reviews and preserve approved versions.
Provide the current document
Control what version is supplied when the hazardous chemical first enters a workplace and after relevant updates.
Connect downstream workplace duties
Supply documentation should feed registers, access, training and risk controls without replacing them.
Practical example
One company manufactures a cleaner locally, imports a coating and distributes a domestic product. The system records a different evidence and approval owner for each SKU.
Release checklist
- Assign role per product
- Name Australian entity
- Control classification and SDS
- Record supplied version
- Link workplace recipients
Common mistakes
- Using one global role for all products
- Assuming the overseas manufacturer owns Australian compliance
- Failing to record which SDS was supplied
Frequently asked questions
Who is responsible for making the SDS?
Safe Work Australia identifies the manufacturer or importer as responsible for a correct SDS.
What does a supplier do?
The supplier provides the current SDS according to applicable WHS requirements.
Can duties be outsourced?
Work can be supported externally, but the relevant duty holder must ensure compliance.
Why map roles per SKU?
The supply route and information owner can differ between products.
Primary sources
Review notice: AUSTRALIAN REGULATORY AND JURISDICTIONAL REVIEW REQUIRED BEFORE INDEXING.