Different Documents Answer Different Questions
A technical sheet, safety sheet and batch record serve different purposes. Do not treat one document—or a product test report—as a substitute for all the others.
| Document | Use | Check before relying on it |
|---|---|---|
| TDS | Product description, stated properties and use limitations | Exact product name/reference, revision and stated test conditions; distinguish typical values from limits. |
| SDS | Hazards, handling, storage and safety communication | Product identity, revision, applicable language and market context. |
| COA | Results or conformity information for an identified batch | Product reference, batch number, tested items and criteria stated on the document. |
| Test report | Results for the identified sample under stated methods | Sample identity, test date, method and scope; not automatic certification or vehicle approval. |
Build a Product-by-Product Document Register
Record the product name, document type, revision/date, issuer and relevant batch or sample identifier. Check that names on the bottle, quotation and documents refer to the same product. If they differ, ask for the relationship to be explained before using a result in your approval decision.
- At product review: request the relevant product and safety information.
- Before the order: agree what documents are needed for the intended application and destination.
- For batch records: check the supplied batch identifier against the order and packaging.