Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS)

Training and Posting

Employers who use or store hazardous products at their worksites have several duties under the OHSA:

1. Ensure that hazardous products are labeled and identified

2. Obtain material and safety data sheets for hazardous products

3. Educate workers

Employers must:

• label each container of hazardous product with the supplier label
  included;
  – the label must not be deliberately removed, destroyed or changed;
  – if the supplier did not provide a label, employer must not use the
  product until the appropriate label is obtained;
• inform workers about the hazardous products they may be exposed to
  on the job.
• allow employees to review labels and material safety data sheets.
•  ensure employees receive instruction and training as needed (e.g. when a new hazardous product is used or stored or a new employee is hired);
  – training program must explain the purpose and contents of supplier labels, workplace labels, safety data sheets and procedures for safe use, storage and handling of hazardous products as well as emergency procedures.

Under the WHMIS Regulation, “hazardous product” means any product, mixture, material or substance that is classified in accordance with the Hazardous Products Regulations (Canada) in a category or subcategory of a hazard class listed in Schedule 2 to the Hazardous Products Act.