Which of the following documents identifies the characteristics and hazards of a substance?

The Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS), now commonly referred to as Safety Data Sheet (SDS), is the correct document that identifies the characteristics and hazards of a substance. This document provides vital information on the properties of chemical substances, including their potential hazards to health, safety, and the environment. It includes details on handling, storage, disposal, and emergency measures in case of an accident.

The SDS is essential for anyone who works with or is exposed to hazardous materials, as it ensures that individuals are informed about how to safely work with these substances and how to respond in case of exposure or an emergency. This is critical for compliance with safety regulations and promoting workplace safety.

In contrast, an Emergency Action Plan focuses on procedures and policies for handling emergencies but does not specifically detail the characteristics of substances. An Income Statement is a financial document that shows a company's revenues and expenses over a specific period, while an Annual Report provides a comprehensive overview of a company’s financial performance and operations over the previous year. Neither of these two financial documents contains information related to the hazards of substances, making the SDS the only relevant choice in this context.