Reviewed: 6 September 2026

Quick answer: A Safety Data Sheet (SDS), previously commonly called an MSDS, provides structured safety information for a specific chemical product. Before using an industrial inkjet cartridge, factories should review the current SDS for the exact ink or cartridge, together with their own workplace procedures and applicable requirements.

An SDS is an important reference, but it is not a product approval certificate, a performance guarantee or proof that an ink is suitable for every application.

1. What information does an SDS normally contain?

The contents depend on the document and product, but an SDS commonly includes information such as:

• product and supplier identification;
• hazard identification and composition information;
• first-aid, firefighting and accidental-release measures;
• handling, storage and exposure-control guidance;
• physical and chemical properties;
• stability, reactivity, disposal and transport information.

Users should follow the exact current document supplied for the product. Do not rely on instructions copied from another ink, an older revision or a different cartridge model.

2. SDS, MSDS and certificate: are they the same?

No. “MSDS” is an older term that is still widely used, while “SDS” is the current general term. An SDS communicates safety information. It should not automatically be described as a “certified SDS” or treated as independent certification unless the relevant document and issuer clearly support that description.

An SDS also does not by itself confirm food-contact suitability, Halal status, environmental compliance, customs clearance or suitability for a particular factory process.

3. What Malaysian factories should check

1. Exact product identity: Match the cartridge or ink identification with the document.
2. Revision date: Request the latest version available and retain the version reviewed.
3. Intended use: Confirm that the ink is being evaluated for the correct printer, material and print location.
4. Handling and storage: Base workplace instructions on the SDS and actual operating environment.
5. Emergency planning: Ensure relevant personnel can access the document and understand the applicable procedures.
6. Transport and disposal: Review the product-specific information with the responsible logistics, safety or waste-management party where required.
7. Internal assessment: Incorporate the SDS into the customer’s own risk assessment and operating procedures.

4. What an SDS does not prove

An SDS does not prove that an ink will adhere to every substrate or remain readable under every condition. Print performance depends on the ink, material, surface treatment, coating, oil, moisture, printing distance, curing time and handling.

It also does not replace:

• a sample print test on the actual material;
• the customer’s workplace risk assessment;
• product-specific regulatory or food-contact documentation;
• advice from the customer’s safety, compliance or logistics professionals.

5. Documents available from PTS

PTS supplies genuine BENTSAI printers, inks and consumables for the Malaysian market. When evaluating an ink, customers may request the current product information, SDS and other supporting documents that are available to PTS for the exact item.

Document availability and scope vary by ink. PTS does not claim that every document covers every use, shipment route or regulatory requirement. Customers should review the supplied documents and independently determine whether they are adequate for their facility and intended application.

6. Evaluate the printer, ink and surface together

For handheld coding applications, PTS can help customers evaluate the BENTSAI BT-HH6205BL and BENTSAI BT-HH6210BL. Selection should be based on print height, material, ink compatibility, production method and required handling performance.

Browse our Coding & Marking Solutions by Application for more guidance.

Frequently asked questions

Is an SDS the same as a product certificate?
No. It is a safety-information document for the identified product.

Does an SDS prove that an ink is suitable for food packaging?
No. Food-contact or packaging suitability requires separate evaluation and any relevant product-specific documentation.

Does an SDS guarantee that a shipment will clear customs?
No. Transport and import requirements may depend on the exact product, quantity, route, carrier and destination. Confirm them with the responsible logistics parties.

Can I use an SDS from a similar ink?
Do not assume that it applies. Match the document to the exact ink or cartridge identification.

What should I provide to PTS?
Send the printer model, ink or cartridge identification, substrate sample, print content, operating environment and any documents requested by your organisation.

Talk to PTS Technology

PTS Technology Sdn Bhd is the exclusive authorised distributor for BENTSAI handheld inkjet printers in Malaysia. The exclusive scope refers specifically to handheld printers.

For product documents or an application evaluation, visit www.ptstsb.com or contact PTS on WhatsApp.

This article provides general product and application information only. It is not legal, regulatory, workplace-safety, transport or compliance advice. Customers should verify the exact product documentation and applicable requirements with their responsible advisers or authorities.