Introduction to WHMIS 2015

WHMIS stands for Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System. It is Canada's national hazard communication standard that ensures workers across the country receive consistent and comprehensive information about the hazardous materials they may be exposed to in their workplace.

The system was first introduced in 1988 and has been instrumental in protecting Canadian workers from injuries and illnesses related to hazardous materials. WHMIS 2015 represents the latest evolution of this system, aligning Canada's requirements with the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS).

WHMIS applies to all workplaces in Canada that are regulated under federal, provincial, or territorial health and safety legislation. This includes manufacturing facilities, construction sites, healthcare facilities, laboratories, retail establishments, and many other work environments where hazardous materials are present.

The primary goal of WHMIS is to protect workers by ensuring they have the information they need to work safely with hazardous materials. This includes understanding the hazards of the materials they work with, knowing how to handle them safely, and being prepared to respond appropriately in emergency situations.

WHMIS 1988 served Canada well for over 25 years, but as international trade expanded and chemical science advanced, the need for a globally harmonized approach became apparent. Different countries had different systems for classifying and communicating chemical hazards, which created confusion and safety risks when products crossed borders.

The United Nations developed the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS) to address this issue. GHS provides a common framework that countries worldwide can adopt, ensuring that workers, consumers, and emergency responders receive consistent information about chemical hazards regardless of where products are manufactured or used.

Canada began implementing GHS through WHMIS 2015, which was phased in between February 2015 and December 2018. The transition period allowed suppliers and employers time to update labels, safety data sheets, and training programs. As of December 1, 2018, WHMIS 2015 became fully enforceable across Canada.

While WHMIS 2015 represents a significant update, many fundamental principles remain the same. The system still relies on labels, safety data sheets, and worker education. However, the classification system is more detailed, the labels have a standardized format with pictograms, and safety data sheets follow a consistent 16-section format.

WHMIS 2015 is built on three essential elements that work together to protect workers: labels, safety data sheets, and education and training. Each element plays a crucial role in the system, and all three must be in place for WHMIS to function effectively.

Labels are the first line of communication about hazardous products. They appear directly on product containers and provide immediate, at-a-glance information about the product's hazards and how to work with it safely. WHMIS 2015 introduced standardized pictograms, signal words, hazard statements, and precautionary statements to make labels more consistent and easier to understand.

Safety Data Sheets (SDS), formerly known as Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS), provide comprehensive technical information about hazardous products. Each SDS follows a standardized 16-section format that covers everything from the product's chemical composition to emergency procedures, safe handling practices, and environmental considerations. Workers must have ready access to SDSs for all hazardous products they work with.

Education and training ensure that workers understand how to use the information on labels and safety data sheets. Employers must provide WHMIS training to all workers who may be exposed to hazardous products. This training must cover general WHMIS principles as well as specific information about the hazardous products in the worker's particular workplace. Training must be provided before workers handle hazardous products and should be updated whenever new hazards are introduced.

WHMIS establishes clear responsibilities for three key groups: suppliers, employers, and workers. Each group has specific duties that contribute to the overall effectiveness of the system. Understanding these roles helps ensure that everyone knows what is expected of them and how they contribute to workplace safety.

Suppliers of hazardous products are responsible for classifying their products according to WHMIS 2015 criteria, creating compliant labels, and preparing accurate safety data sheets. Suppliers must ensure that products are properly labeled before they leave the supplier's control and that SDSs are provided to purchasers. When suppliers obtain new hazard information about a product, they must update the SDS within 90 days and the label as soon as possible.

Employers have extensive responsibilities under WHMIS. They must ensure that all hazardous products are properly labeled, maintain an up-to-date inventory of hazardous products, ensure that current SDSs are readily accessible to workers, provide WHMIS education and training to workers, and establish procedures for safe handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous materials. Employers must also implement procedures for emergencies involving hazardous products.

Workers have the right to know about the hazards they may be exposed to and the responsibility to work safely. Workers must participate in WHMIS training, follow safe work procedures, use required personal protective equipment, report any missing or damaged labels to their supervisor, and inform their supervisor if they need additional information or training. Workers also have the right to refuse work they believe is unsafe, including situations where they have not received adequate WHMIS training or information.