Direct answer: Ensure the correct bilingual version reaches purchasers and remains accessible to workers.
Provide the document
Record the actual transmission or delivery of the bilingual SDS, not only the existence of a public URL.
Send both language parts
Where two unilingual parts form one SDS, keep them together in the same controlled delivery.
Track the released revision
The recipient record should identify which approved version was provided.
Make workplace access resilient
Electronic access needs practical procedures, user knowledge and contingency planning under applicable workplace rules.
Handle updates downstream
A revised document should trigger a controlled distribution assessment rather than silently changing a web file.
Practical example
A supplier emails only a link to an English SDS. The workflow blocks completion until both approved language parts are attached or otherwise provided through a reviewed method.
Release checklist
- Approve both language parts
- Record provision method
- Identify recipient and revision
- Test workplace access
- Control update distribution
Common mistakes
- Sending only a URL
- Providing one language part
- Replacing a hosted file without version evidence
Frequently asked questions
Is a website link alone enough?
Health Canada guidance says merely providing a website address or hyperlink is not acceptable as the only provision method.
Can electronic delivery be used?
Guidance gives email attachment as an example; ensure both parts are provided.
What about QR codes?
A QR code alone is not described as sufficient provision of the supplier SDS.
Should recipients be logged?
A controlled record helps show which revision was provided and supports updates.
Primary sources
Review notice: CANADIAN REGULATORY AND FRENCH TERMINOLOGY REVIEW REQUIRED BEFORE INDEXING.