WHMIS 2015 – Are you prepared?
Whmis 2015

Introduction

The Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS), Canada’s hazard communication standard, came into effect on October 31, 1988. The key elements of the system are hazard classification, cautionary labelling of containers, the provision of (material) safety data sheets ((M)SDSs), and worker education programs. On February 11, 2015, the Government released final regulations, the Hazardous Products Regulations (HPR), modifying WHMIS to incorporate the GHS for workplace chemicals. This modified WHMIS is referred to as “WHMIS 2015”.

What is GHS?

The GHS is an internationally consistent approach to classifying chemicals and communicating hazard information though labels and SDSs. The implementation of the GHS in Canada will enhance the protection of human health by providing workers with standardized and consistent information on workplace chemical hazards and help facilitate international trade.

With the implementation of the GHS in Canada, a transition period permits suppliers, importers and distributors of hazardous chemicals, as well as employers with such chemicals in their workplaces, to comply with the newly revised WHMIS program, incorporating the GHS (WHMIS 2015). The transition period will end on December 1, 2018.

Labeling Requirements have changed

The fact that all chemical containers must have proper labeling has not changed. However, there are many notable differences between the old WHMIS 1988 labels and the new GHS formatted labels. You can expect to see the following changes:

  • GHS format labels no longer include a hatched border and no reference to MSDS.
  • HPR features product identifier, supplier identifier, GHS pictogram(s), a signal word with hazard and precautionary statements.
  • Both English and French should appear on the label.
  • There are no specific size requirements.

Responsibilities have not changed

WHMIS 2015 includes new harmonized criteria for hazard classification and requirements for labels and safety data sheets (SDS). However, the roles and responsibilities for suppliers, employers and workers have not changed.

Suppliers will continue to:

  1. Identify their products as either hazardous or not
  2. Prepare labels and SDSs and provide them to purchasers of hazardous products intended for use in the workplace.

Employers will continue to:

  1. Educate and train workers about the hazards and safe use of hazardous products in the workplace.
  2. Ensure hazardous products are properly labelled.
  3. Prepare workplace labels and SDSs
  4. Ensure appropriate control measures are in place to protect workers health and safety

Workers will continue to:

  1. Participate in WHMIS and chemical safety training programs.
  2. Take necessary steps to protect themselves and their co-workers.
  3. Participate in identifying and controlling hazards in the workplace.

Conclusion

Although the transition to WHMIS 2015 has been a multi-year process, you may have some questions that need clarification. The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety has produced a series of Fact Sheets that answer many questions regarding the WHMIS 2015 transition. The final deadline for compliance is rapidly approaching, make sure your workplace programs have been reviewed and updated to reflect the WHMIS 2015 standards by December 1st.

Download our WHMIS 2015 infographic poster here.