WHMIS Lesson 4

WHMIS The Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) is Canada's national hazard communication standard. The key elements of the system are cautionary labelling of containers of WHMIS "controlled products", the provision of material safety data sheets (MSDSs) and worker education programs

WHMIS Symbols CLASS A: COMPRESSED GAS This class includes compressed gases, dissolved gases, and gases liquefied by compression or refrigeration.

WHMIS Symbols CLASS B: FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE MATERIAL This class includes solids, liquids, and gases capable of catching fire in the presence of a spark or open flame under normal working conditions.

WHMIS Symbols CLASS C: OXIDIZING MATERIAL These materials increase the risk of fire if they come in contact with flammable or combustible materials.

WHMIS Symbols CLASS D: POISONOUS AND INFECTIOUS MATERIAL Division 1: Materials Causing Immediate and Serious Toxic Effects These materials can cause death or immediate injury when a person is exposed to small amounts. Examples: sodium cyanide, hydrogen sulphide

WHMIS Symbols CLASS D: POISONOUS AND INFECTIOUS MATERIAL Division 2: Materials Causing Other Toxic EFFECTS These materials can cause life-threatening and serious long-term health problems as well as less severe but immediate reactions in a person who is repeatedly exposed to small amounts.

WHMIS Symbols CLASS D: POISONOUS AND INFECTIOUS MATERIAL Division 3: Biohazardous Infectious MATERIAL These materials contain harmful micro- organisms that have been classified into Risk Groups 2, 3, and 4 as determined by the World Health Organization (WHO) or the Medical Research Council of Canada.

WHMIS Symbols CLASS E: CORROSIVE MATERIAL This class includes caustic and acid materials that can destroy the skin or eat through metals. Examples: sodium hydroxide, hydrochloric acid, nitric acid

WHMIS Symbols CLASS F: DANGEROUSLY REACTIVE MATERIAL These products may self-react dangerously (for example, they may explode) upon standing or when exposed to physical shock or to increased pressure or temperature, or they emit toxic gases when exposed to water.

Two Types of WHMIS Labels WHMIS labels include first aid information and details about storage, handling, and disposal. There are two types of WHMIS labels: - Supplier labels - Workplace labels

Supplier Labels Supplier labels are used by the people who make each chemical. Supplier labels have a strict format. Hashed marked identifier label Written in English and French Supplier Name Precautionary measures Risk Phrases First Aid Treatment Name of product Hazard Symbols Statement referring to MSDS

Supplier Labels

Workplace Labels After chemicals are rebottled, a workplace label my replace the Supplier label. Workplace labels are allowed to have different formats. A Workplace label contains less information than the Supplier label, but it still has enough information to help you use the chemical safely.

Workplace Labels Requirements Product name Information for safe handling of the product Statement referring to MSDS WHMIS hazard symbols (optional)

Working with the chemicals