ChemInventory Frequently Asked Questions

• Why ChemInventory?
  The Department of Chemistry was looking for a resource that would help them manage all of their chemicals in a simple and effective way.  They were also interested in a product that would allow them to share their inventories between research groups.  Upon finding ChemInventory, the department tested it and found what they were looking for.  Due to the success Chemistry experienced using this program, it is now being rolled out across MSU.
• Is ChemInventory a requirement?
  Yes.  As of January 1, 2023 all research labs will be required to transition to ChemInventory.
• How does it work?
  Cloud-based storage.
• How much does it cost?
  Nothing.
• How do I (or my lab) initially gain access to ChemInventory?

  Each individual will need to have a login created for themselves.  To do this, please contact EHS.ChemInventory@msu.edu.

  Once a profile has been created for you, you will receive an email from EHS with information for logging in.
• How do I give or revoke access to my inventory?
  See the Managing User Accounts page on ChemInventory https://www.cheminventory.net/support/inventory-management/managing-users/.
• How do I upload an existing chemical inventory?
  You can upload an existing inventory from Excel.  Instructions can be found here:  https://www.cheminventory.net/support/inventory-management/excel-import/.
• I have labs in two different buildings. Do I need two separate inventories?

  Yes, please indicate this when submitting your inventory sheet and we will give you two separate inventory accounts.

• Can I share my inventory with other researchers or labs?
  Yes.
• Am I required to share my inventory?
  No.
• Can I attach SDS sheets to the inventory?

  Yes, the (M)SDS and File Storage page can be used by your lab as a central repository for files. Any files uploaded to this page can be linked to substances under your account, enabling you to download them directly from results on the Search and Locations pages. Files of any format can be uploaded.

   

• Does this integrate with MSU Purchasing?
  Not yet.
• Can I generate barcodes with this program?

  Yes.  Barcodes act as unique identifiers for each item in your inventory.  Barcodes can be used with scanners to simplify processes in your laboratory which are typically time-intensive, such as stocktakes and reconciliations.  More info can be found at Getting Started with Barcodes.

• Is my information safe?
  Yes.  MSU Single Sign-On (SSO) is used to access ChemInventory.
• Will I still have to submit Homeland Security reports yearly?

  No, the program will be able to generate these reports automatically whenever DHS requests them.

• Can I put other items in the inventory besides chemicals?
  Yes, you can list gas cylinders, radioisotopes, and biological materials.
• Will ChemInventory tell me which chemicals are compatible and are able to be stored with each other?
  No.  But you can refer to the EHS Storage and Labeling webpage or contact the EHS Chemical Safety Team with any questions regarding chemical storage and compatibility.
• Will ChemInventory create chemical labels?
  Yes.  ChemInventory can generate GHS compliant chemical labels.
• My question isn’t addressed under these FAQ’s. Where can I find more information?
  Contact the EHS ChemInventory Help Desk at EHS.ChemInventory@msu.edu or refer to the ChemInventory Support page.