WHMIS

WHMIS, the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System, is Canada's national system for communicating information on hazardous materials used in workplaces. It provides standardized classification, labeling, and safety information to protect workers from exposure to hazardous products. WHMIS applies to controlled products used, stored, or handled in workplaces and requires suppliers to classify hazards and provide product labels and safety data sheets; employers must ensure labels are in place, provide workplace labeling where needed, and supply education and training to workers.

WHMIS comprises hazard classification, supplier labeling, workplace labeling, safety data sheets (SDS), and worker education and training. Since WHMIS 2015, classifications and hazard communication follow the Globally Harmonized System (GHS), and traditional MSDS have been replaced by SDS. Pictograms, hazard statements, and precautionary statements on labels and SDS convey hazards and safe handling requirements.

WHMIS is administered by federal, provincial, and territorial governments, with enforcement under provincial and territorial occupational health and safety legislation and, for federal workplaces, the Canada Labour Code. The system places responsibilities on both suppliers and employers: suppliers classify hazards and provide supplier labels and SDS, while employers ensure appropriate labeling in the workplace, post workplace labels where needed, and train workers to interpret labels and SDS and to work safely with hazardous products.