TDS, SDS and COA: how raw material documents differ
A chemical raw material usually comes with three key documents: the Technical Data Sheet (TDS), which describes the product technically; the Safety Data Sheet (SDS), which covers safe use; and the Certificate of Analysis (COA), which reports the results for the delivered batch. Each answers a different question, and none replaces the others.
Technical Data Sheet (TDS)
A product description prepared by the manufacturer. It usually covers the product’s identity, appearance, typical values or specification ranges, recommended applications, packaging and storage. There is no legally defined format; content varies by manufacturer.
Safety Data Sheet (SDS)
A safety document covering hazards, first aid, storage, exposure controls, transport and disposal. In Turkey it is prepared in Turkish in the 16-section format of the KKDIK Regulation — see What is a Turkish SDS (GBF)?
Certificate of Analysis (COA)
Reports the analytical results of a specific batch (lot) together with the specification limits. It usually shows the batch number, manufacturing date, expiry or retest date and the test methods used. While the TDS describes the product in general, the COA documents that the batch you received meets those properties.
What to check on delivery
- Does the batch number on the COA match the label on the packaging?
- Are the COA results within the agreed specification (TDS or contract)?
- Is the SDS up to date, in the required language, and consistent with the product name and CAS number on the packaging?
- Where needed, request Halal, Kosher, allergen or GMO declarations separately — they depend on the product and manufacturer.
You can request documents with the “Request TDS / SDS” button on ISFCHEM product pages; documents are provided depending on the product and manufacturer.
Source: KKDIK Regulation (consolidated text, mevzuat.gov.tr) — Article 27.