WHMIS

The Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) is Canada's hazard communication standard. The objective of WHMIS is to protect Canadian workers from the adverse effects of hazardous materials through educating both the workers and the employer. The WHMIS program provides a single compliance policy for both suppliers and employers.

The program came into effect on October 31, 1988.  All government agencies have agreed to consult on any proposed changes to their respective WHMIS legislation and regulations in order to ensure consistency with developments in the national consensus on WHMIS. The Intergovernmental WHMIS Coordinating Committee serves as the forum for this consultation.

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Key to the WHMIS Program is the cautionary labeling of containers of WHMIS "controlled products", MSDS sheets (Material Safety Data Sheets) and education programs for workers.

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The requirements for supplier labeling and MSDS sheets are set by the Hazardous Products Act and associated Controlled Products Regulations, which are in turn administered by Health Canada.

Federal, provincial and territorial agencies in charge of occupational health and safety are responsible for establishing the employer WHMIS requirements and ensuring that the program is implemented.  These requirements ensure that controlled substances in a workplace must be  properly labeled and that their MSDS sheets be available to the workers.  These substances must be used, stored, handled and disposed of properly and workers must receive regular education and training to ensure the safe use, storage and handling of these substances.

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Do you know the signs?

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F.A.S.T. Rescue Inc. is committed to providing the worker education necessary to ensure that employers meet the requirements of the legislation.   For further information on our courses, visit our website or contact us

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Note: This information is offered as information only and is designed to promote Health & Safety in the workplace and the community.  It is subject to change.

 

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