The Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) has changed. The new nationally recognized standard incorporates the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS).
Effective February 11, the new system, dubbed WHMIS 2015, now includes harmonized criteria for hazard classification and requirements for hazard communications through labels and safety data sheets. WHMIS 2015 is based on new requirements contained within the Hazardous Products Regulations and Hazardous Products Act.
Changes include relabeling ‘controlled products’ as ‘hazardous products’, new pictograms, creation of more hazard classes, and new supplier labels.
There is currently a three-year, multi-phase transition period in effect for these changes.
“We’re in the process of updating our current Regulations with the new WHMIS information,” says Judy Kainz, Chief Safety Officer at the WSCC. “It’s helpful for everyone to familiarize themselves with the new system. I highly recommend taking advantage of the free training that is available.”
The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) offers a free one-hour online course for workers to learn about WHMIS after GHS. Sign up here - www.ccohs.ca/products/courses/whmis_workers.
It’s important to note that worker, employer, and supplier roles and responsibilities do not change, and training and education are still a vital part of occupational health and safety around chemicals.
Information on how these changes affect the Northwest Territories, Nunavut, and the rest of the country is available through whmis.org.
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Kim Walker
Manager, Communications
T: (867) 920-3846
TF: (800) 661-0792 ext. 3846