WHMIS

Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals

With the implementation of the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS) in Canada, Canadian employers and the suppliers of chemical products need to comply with WHMIS rules.

GHS is a system that defines and classifies the hazards of chemical products, and communicates health and safety information on labels and material safety data sheets (called safety data sheets, or SDSs, in GHS). The goal is that the same set of rules for classifying hazards, and the same format and content for labels and SDSs, will be adopted and used around the world. An international team of hazard communication experts developed GHS.

Countries around the world have either already adopted GHS or are in the process of adopting it into their hazard classification and communication requirements for workplace and other products. GHS style labels and SDSs are used in workplaces across Saskatchewan. Part III of The Saskatchewan Employment Act and The Occupational Health and Safety Regulations, 2020 are in accordance with federal legislation and regulations.

What is WHMIS?

Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System, or WHMIS, is a detailed plan for the safe use of hazardous materials at work. You can identify hazardous materials by product labels, safety data sheets (SDSs) and worker education programs.

What are the main parts of WHMIS?

The main parts of WHMIS are:

  • Hazard identification
  • Product classification
  • Labelling
  • Safety data sheets
  • Worker training and education

Why was WHMIS created?

WHMIS was created to help prevent injuries, illness, death, medical expenses and fires caused by hazardous materials.

Resources:

The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) offers free online courses, WHMIS for Workers and WHMIS for Managers and Supervisors, that have been developed for WorkSafe Saskatchewan. Participants in these courses will learn more about the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS), including:

  • an introduction to WHMIS and regulations
  • WHMIS roles and responsibilities
  • WHMIS classes and symbols
  • the safe use and handling of controlled products
  • safety data sheets

These courses are for anyone who works with, or could be exposed to, hazardous materials at work or their supervisors.

Note: Online registration for these courses is handled by the CCOHS.

What are employers required to do?

After completing the online course, you must get workplace-specific training in handling the chemicals and materials you work with or could be exposed to. Your employer is responsible for arranging this portion of your training.