Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) is the RIGHT to KNOW
|
Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) is the “right to know” legislation comprised of governing laws, principals, information, and guidelines aimed at ensuring that anyone who works with controlled substances understands the associated risks. By using a series of symbols and providing consistent information, WHMIS has become a universally accepted form of hazard communication among workers worldwide.
WHMIS includes the following main components:
|
 |
Canada adopted the globally harmonized system of classification and labelling of chemicals, known as GHS, in 2015
WHMIS After GHS (WHMIS 2015)
|
In 2015, Canada adopted the globally harmonized system of classification and labelling of chemicals, known as GHS. In short, this means that Canada is using the same system to classify and label chemicals, along with many other countries. The benefits of adopting GHS include:
|
You may hear the term WHMIS, WHMIS with GHS, or simply WHMIS 2015 all interchangeably, but they all refer to the new and improved, updated WHMIS program in Canada.
|
WHMIS 2015: The Need-to-Know Basics
|
Hazard Identification and Product Classification
Under each of the 3 hazard groups, there are several classifications. As well, there are symbols associated with the hazard groups and classes, to provide a visual warning. While many of us are familiar with the circular WHMIS symbols under the old system, WHMIS GHS uses a series of symbols, recognizable by the red board and diamond, or “square-on-point” shape. Note that the round bio-hazard symbol from the original WHMIS system remains in use. 
WHIMS 2015 pictographs from http://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/chemicals/whmis_ghs/pictograms.html
|
Hazard IdentificationThere are three major hazard groups under WHMIS GHS:
|
|
Labelling
Under GHS, certain and specific information must appear on labels, and all containers (with very few exceptions) must bear these labels. Labels include:
The information displayed on the label will depend on the hazard category and class of the chemical. Safety Data Sheets
Safety Data Sheets (SDS) replaced MSDS (Materials Safety Data Sheets). The SDS contains 16 sections. All SDS have the same sections so that the information is consistent with all countries that have adopted GHS, making the information universal for all workers worldwide. You may keep electronic SDS records; however, there should also be a physical version of the SDSs available somewhere that is easily accessible. |
TrainingWHMIS training is mandatory for all workers in Ontario. It must be specific to the workplace. This means that you have the right to know and receive training on any controlled substance that is used, produced, or transported as part of your work. Training should be refreshed every year. If you haven’t received WHMIS training, reach out to the JHSC worker member, or your supervisor to ask for required training. Consider training one of your own to train WHMIS – Learn More about the benefits of Train-the-Trainer Programs! |
Trust MidSouthWest Training and Consulting
MidSouthWest Training and Consulting provides JHSC training in association with Langlois Safety Training and Consulting Services, an approved CPO Provider. We offer in-house and on-site JHSC Part One, Part Two, and Refresher training. We also offer:
WHMIS Training
You can trust MidSouthWest Training and Consulting to provide you with cost-effective training solutions tailored to meet your organization’s unique health and safety needs.
To learn more, contact us online or call 289.309.1143. Visit us 24/7 on the web at midsouthwest.ca.
WHMIS Training
You can trust MidSouthWest Training and Consulting to provide you with cost-effective training solutions tailored to meet your organization’s unique health and safety needs.
To learn more, contact us online or call 289.309.1143. Visit us 24/7 on the web at midsouthwest.ca.
Last updated Aug 2, 2022
[1] Hepburn, Kelloway, and Franche, “Early Employer Response to Workplace Injury,” Journal of Occupational Rehabilitation 22(2012): 196-208.
[1] Hepburn, Kelloway, and Franche, “Early Employer Response to Workplace Injury,” Journal of Occupational Rehabilitation 22(2012): 196-208.
