Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) are critical safety tools when working with essential oils in soap and lotion making, as they provide detailed information about the chemical properties, hazards, and safe handling procedures for each oil. These documents help crafters understand potential skin irritation risks, proper dilution ratios, contraindications, flash points, and storage requirements specific to each essential oil. Having access to and understanding MSDS information is particularly important since essential oils are highly concentrated plant compounds that can cause adverse reactions if mishandled, including chemical burns, allergic responses, or photosensitivity. The sheets also outline crucial first aid measures and spill control procedures, making them indispensable for creating body care products safely and responsibly. Following MSDS guidelines helps ensure both maker and end-user safety while maintaining regulatory compliance in small-batch production.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires Safety Data Sheets (SDS), which were formerly known as Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS). This requirement falls under OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard (29 CFR 1910.1200). The change from "MSDS" to "SDS" occurred in 2012 when OSHA aligned its Hazard Communication Standard with the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS). Under these regulations, manufacturers, distributors, and importers must provide SDS for each hazardous chemical to downstream users, and employers must ensure these documents are readily accessible to employees who work with these materials.