Your Ultimate Guide to WHMIS 2015 & Labels in Surrey
Understanding labels is the first step to workplace safety. Master the essentials of WHMIS with this detailed guide from RupIELTS Institute, Surrey's leading safety training provider.
What is WHMIS 2015?
The Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) is Canada's national standard for communicating information about hazardous products in the workplace. Updated in 2015 to align with the Globally Harmonized System (GHS), it ensures everyone in the workplace has the information they need to stay safe.
Classification
Grouping hazardous products by their properties.
Labels
Quick-reference info on containers.
Safety Data Sheets
Detailed technical information on products.
Training
Hands-on education to ensure safety.
Decoding WHMIS Labels: Your First Line of Defense
Labels are your immediate alert to a product's hazards and the necessary precautions. There are two main types you must know.
1. Supplier Labels
Provided by the manufacturer, these labels must appear on all hazardous products arriving at a workplace. They have six standardized pieces of information.
1. Product Identifier: The product's brand, chemical, or common name.
2. Supplier Identifier: The name, address, and phone number of the Canadian supplier.
3. Pictogram(s): Symbols that show you the hazard at a glance.
4. Signal Word: "Danger" for severe hazards or "Warning" for less severe ones.
5. Hazard Statement(s): Standard phrases describing the hazard (e.g., "Fatal if swallowed").
6. Precautionary Statement(s): How to prevent harm (e.g., "Wear protective gloves").
2. Workplace Labels
These labels are used internally at your workplace. You need a workplace label when:
- A hazardous product is produced (made) and used at your workplace.
- A hazardous product is decanted (poured) into a different container.
- A supplier label is lost or becomes unreadable.
A Workplace Label Must Have:
1. Product Name: Matching the name on the SDS.
2. Safe Handling Precautions: Instructions, which can include pictograms.
3. Reference to the SDS: A note that the Safety Data Sheet is available.
Example:
ACETONE
No smoking or open flames. Wear safety goggles and gloves. Use only in well-ventilated area.
See SDS for more information.
Become a Safety Leader in Your Surrey Workplace
Knowledge is power. Gain the skills and confidence to work safely with hazardous materials by getting your WHMIS certification from RupIELTS Institute.
WHMIS Training in Surrey, BC
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