WHMIS 2015

Statement of Use
The information contained in this document is the intellectual property of
Global HazMat Inc. and, therefore, shall not be duplicated or reproduced in
whole or in part, without the expressed written consent of Global HazMat
Inc.

Copyright © 2016 Global HazMat Inc.

All rights reserved.

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 WHMIS 2015

INTRODUCTION
In Canada, hazardous products are regulated by Health Canada as well as
each provincial jurisdiction. Different federal and provincial agencies Introduction
regulate the workplace, transportation of hazardous products, and effects
on the environment. Because of this, labels for the same product often vary.
This discrepancy leads to worker confusion, consumer uncertainty, and the
need for additional resources to maintain multiple hazard classification
systems.

To eliminate these problems, the Globally Harmonized System of

Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS), referred to as WHMIS 2015
throughout this course, has been designed for all target audiences
including, but not limited to:

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The overall goal of WHMIS 2015 is similar to that of Canada's former hazard
classification system, the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information
System (WHMIS 1988). These systems seek to protect both you and the
environment from potential exposure to hazardous products by ensuring
that your employer provides necessary protection in the form of
appropriate tools, policies, and standards.

The main difference between the old and new WHMIS systems is that
manufacturers, suppliers, and importers of hazardous products regulated
under WHMIS 2015 are responsible for testing, analyzing, classifying, and
otherwise determining the hazards and risks to you using the criteria
outlined in the UN Model Regulation on the Transport of Dangerous Goods

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 WHMIS 2015

(TDG). This means that many of the criteria are already being used on a
worldwide basis. Hazardous product information from the TDG system may
now be listed on WHMIS 2015 labels and safety data sheets (SDS's)
provided to you and your employer.
Introduction
This change makes it necessary for your employer to educate and train you
in order to implement WHMIS 2015 in your workplace and prevent injury,
disease, or death resulting from your use of hazardous products. This
course provides the WHMIS 2015 education you require by giving you the
knowledge and understanding necessary to answer the following questions:

♦ What hazardous products could I be exposed to?

♦ Where do I find information about the hazards of these products?
♦ How do I protect myself?
♦ What should I do if an incident occurs?

Additionally, your employer must provide you with necessary workplace

practical training.

The information in this course will be presented in five chapters:

♦ Chapter 1: Health and Safety

♦ Chapter 2: Classification
♦ Chapter 3: Labels
♦ Chapter 4: Safety Data Sheets
♦ Chapter 5: Rights, Responsibilities, Education, and Training

By the end of this course you should be able to:

♦ Identify physical and health hazards

♦ Take precautionary measures including choosing appropriate
personal protective equipment
♦ Classify substances and mixtures based on WHMIS 2015 hazard
classifications
♦ Identify the hazard and safety information found on WHMIS 2015
labels
♦ Identify WHMIS 2015 symbols and pictograms
♦ Locate and apply information contained on safety data sheets
♦ Outline your rights as a worker and the responsibilities of your
employer
♦ Explain the importance of education and training

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 WHMIS 2015

CHAPTER 1: HEALTH AND SAFETY

By the end of this chapter, you should be able to:
Health and
♦ Explain factors that influence the severity of exposure to a hazardous Safety
product
♦ Describe various routes of entry
♦ List potential health effects of hazardous products
♦ Explain how to prevent exposure
♦ Identify types and uses of personal protective equipment

EXPOSURE
Depending on your job, during the course of your employment, you may be
exposed or subjected to many types of hazardous products. Products are
hazardous when they can create a physical or health hazard. Examples of
hazardous products include, but are not limited to, simple asphyxiants,
combustible dusts, pyrophoric gases, or hazards not otherwise classified.

If you are exposed to a hazardous product, the severity of the exposure will
be influenced by several factors including the:

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Routes of Entry
A route of entry is the way a hazardous product enters your body.
Hazardous products may have serious effects when they enter your body by
one route but minimal effects by another. Hazardous products may enter
your body through:

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 WHMIS 2015

Hazardous products enter your body through inhalation when you breathe
them in through your mouth or nose. Hazardous products that can be
inhaled include gases, dusts, vapours, fumes, and mists.

Hazardous products are ingested when they are absorbed through your Health
Healthand
and
digestive tract via your mouth. This can occur when eating or smoking with Safety
Safety
contaminated hands or in contaminated work areas. It can also occur if a
hazardous product is splashed into your mouth.

Hazardous products may also enter your body if substances or particles are
splashed or squirted into your eyes. These situations are the most common
causes of eye injuries.

Absorption occurs when hazardous products enter your body by

penetrating the barrier of your skin. This may cause skin irritation,
inflammation, or sensitization, as well as possible toxic effects.

Injection occurs when your skin is pierced and a hazardous product is

injected directly into your bloodstream. Injection may occur through
contact with needles or other sharp objects that contain or carry
contaminants.

It’s important to realize that by simply coming in contact with your skin,
hazardous products can cause burns or rashes or have toxic effects.

It is also possible for hazardous products to cause multiple hazards

depending on their route of entry. For example, a hazardous product could
be corrosive to the skin and toxic to inhale.

Health Effects
Once inside your body, hazardous products may have either chronic or
acute effects. Chronic effects are long-term effects that damage your health
over a period of time following continuous or repeated exposure. For
example, prolonged exposure to asbestos or silica may result in respiratory
problems or lung cancer.

Acute effects, on the other hand, have the potential to cause immediate
injury to you or damage to your health as a result of an instantaneous or
short duration exposure. For example, exposure to spray paint vapours or
ammonia could immediately affect your breathing.

In addition to being distinguished by their route of entry and the time

period over which their effects occur, some hazardous products are given
additional labels to help identify their hazard. For example, spray paint is
considered to be a sensitizer. Sensitizers are hazardous products that may
cause the brain and body to trigger allergic or allergic-like responses, such
as a rash or shortness of breath. After initial exposure to a substance, an
individual may become sensitized to it, therefore causing an allergic
reaction.

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 WHMIS 2015

Irritants are hazardous products that aggravate whatever tissue they come
in contact with. Irritants may not be visible, but they can cause internal
damage or rashes. Examples of irritants include acids, bases, and fat-
dissolving solvents. Health and
Safety
Health and
Some hazardous products are asphyxiants, which means they can cause Safety
unconsciousness or death by suffocation through a depletion of oxygen to
your body tissues. Examples of asphyxiants include nitrogen, helium, and
propane.

Other hazardous products, such as some pesticides, attack the nervous

system directly while others, such as cyanide, attack it indirectly by
preventing oxygen from reaching the brain.

Hazardous products also exist that can cause birth defects, diseases, and
malformation in children such as insecticides.

As should be evident by now, preventing exposure to hazardous products

should be one of your top priorities.

PREVENTING EXPOSURE
Preventing exposure to hazardous products requires you to determine your
answers to the following questions:

♦ What hazardous products could I be exposed to?

♦ How are my risks of exposure being controlled?
♦ Do I understand and implement my workplace safety procedures?
♦ What personal protective equipment should I use?

Identifying what hazards you may be exposed to allows you to determine:

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Once the hazards are identified, you and your employer can control the
process or method in which hazardous products are used in your workplace
by:

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Safety
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As part of the control process, after implementing engineering controls,

your employer will develop and implement administrative controls, which
are controls used to alter how work is done. Common administrative
controls include written procedures for working with hazardous products
and using personal protective equipment (PPE). These work procedures
should:

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Finally, after your employer has attempted to eliminate or reduce your

exposure to hazardous products through the use of elimination,
substitution, and engineering and administrative controls, your employer is
responsible for determining what PPE must be used to protect you from
harm.

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 WHMIS 2015

Your employer must:

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Health and
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Additionally, your employer must ensure the proper fit and maintenance of
your PPE as this is vital to your safety. If your PPE does not fit properly or is
damaged, you are at serious risk of injury or exposure. Therefore, it is
crucial that you inspect your PPE prior to and after each use.

It is also crucial for you to realize that your PPE needs may not be the same
at all times. They may vary depending on:

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The SDS or WHMIS 2015 label that came with the hazardous product you
are using should provide the information needed to determine the
appropriate PPE. However, if the correct information cannot be found or is
unclear, you should contact your employer or supervisor.

When reviewing an SDS or WHMIS 2015 label, it is likely that you will find
information on three types of PPE: respiratory protection, eye protection,
and skin protection.

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 WHMIS 2015

Respiratory Protection
There are two main types of respiratory protection: atmosphere-supplying
respirators and air-purifying respirators.
Health and
Atmosphere-supplying respirators provide breathable air from a source Safety
independent of the surrounding atmosphere. Conversely, air-purifying
respirators contain an air-purifying filter, cartridge, or canister that removes
specific air contaminants from the air by passing it through an air-purifying
element.

To determine which respirator is best suited to your specific task or

hazardous product, consult the product’s SDS or ask your employer or
supervisor.

When respiratory equipment is required, it is imperative to ensure that its

fits you properly. Circumstances which could interfere with proper fit
include:

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Make sure that your respirator is selected, fitted, and tested by a qualified
fit tester and that you are trained on the respirator’s use. This information
should be recorded for your employer and required inspection purposes.

For respirators that require filters or cartridges, note how long a cartridge is
designed to last. If that overall time period is exceeded, it may not provide
adequate protection to you.

It is also important to realize that particulate or dust masks are non-

respiratory forms of inhalation protection and should only be used when
there are no WHMIS 2015 hazardous products present. Dust masks will not
protect against inhalation risks other than dust or mild airborne particles.

Eye Protection
If the risk of eye or face injury exists at your workplace, then appropriate
eye protection should be worn. Eye protection can vary depending on what
hazards are present and what your specific job duties are. Safety eyewear
prevents hazards from entering your eyes directly and from the side,
whereas full face shields protect you from hazardous products that could
splash into your face and eyes. Always choose the right eye protection for
your job.

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 WHMIS 2015

Skin Protection
Some hazardous products, such as corrosives and irritants, can cause
serious damage when they contact skin. Protective clothing is designed to
eliminate or restrict this contact. Examples of skin protection include:
Health and
Safety
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Keep in mind that some hazardous products may react to or destroy certain
types of material. Therefore, you should ensure your skin protection will
work for the hazards present by checking the product’s SDS. It should
explain precautions such as what type of gloves to wear (for example,
nitrile, butyl rubber, or natural rubber gloves), if an apron is necessary, and
what foot protection is appropriate.

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CHAPTER 2: CLASSIFICATION
By the end of this chapter, you should be able to:
Classification
♦ Define the terms substance and mixture
♦ Explain how substances and mixtures are assigned to classes
♦ Explain the difference between hazard classes and categories
♦ Name at least five physical and five health hazard classes

HAZARDOUS PRODUCT CLASSIFICATION

Classification of hazardous products is the first step in hazard
communication. It involves identification of the hazards of substances and
mixtures.

Within the context of WHMIS 2015, substances are a combination of

chemical elements and their compounds that are either naturally occurring
or have been created through a production process. They include any
additives necessary to preserve the substance’s stability and any impurities
derived from any process used to create the substance. Substances do not
include any solvent that may be separated without affecting the substance’s
stability or composition.

Mixtures are solutions composed of two or more substances that do not

react. For example, an alloy is a mixture of metallic material that appears to
be the same to the naked eye but actually consists of two or more elements
that cannot be readily separated by mechanical means.

Substances and mixtures can occur in any of the three physical states:

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To obtain consistency and clarity in the identification of hazards, WHMIS

2015 assigns substances and mixtures hazard classes and categories using
defined criteria.

Substances and mixtures are assigned classes based on the nature of their
hazard: physical or health. For example, a substance or mixture that is
acutely toxic, which is a health hazard, would belong to the acute toxicity
class. Hazard classes are further divided into hazard categories based on
their severity. For example, the class of acute toxicity includes five hazard
categories based on lethal dose or concentration.

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 WHMIS 2015

Manufacturers and importers are responsible for classifying the substances

and mixtures they produce or import. If you and your employer are not
manufacturers or importers, you are not required to classify substances and
mixtures yourselves unless you disagree with the manufacturer's or
importer's classification. Keep in mind that technical expertise and Classification
judgement may be required to determine the correct classification as it
involves:

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HAZARD CLASSES AND CATEGORIES

As mentioned, WHMIS 2015 assigns substances and mixtures classes based
on the nature of their hazard:

♦ Physical
♦ Health

Physical Hazards
Physical hazards consist of 19 classes:

♦ Flammable gases
♦ Flammable liquids
♦ Flammable solids
♦ Flammable aerosols
♦ Oxidizing gases
♦ Oxidizing liquids
♦ Oxidizing solids
♦ Gases under pressure
♦ Organic peroxides
♦ Self-reactive substances
♦ Pyrophoric gases
♦ Pyrophoric liquids
♦ Pyrophoric solids

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♦ Self-heating substances
♦ Substances which, in contact with water, emit flammable gases
♦ Combustible dusts
♦ Simple asphyxiants
♦ Substances corrosive to metals Classification
♦ Physical hazards not otherwise classified

Flammables
Flammable gases, such as propane, are gases that are easily set on fire in
air at 20°C at a standard pressure of 101.3 kPa. Substances and mixtures of
this hazard class are assigned to either Category 1 or 2 based on the results
of approved tests or calculations.

Flammable liquids, such as gasoline, are liquids that have a flash point of
less than or equal to 93°C. Substances and mixtures of this hazard class are
assigned to one of four hazard categories based on their flash point and, in
some cases, their initial boiling point.

Flammable solids are solids that are readily combustible or may cause or
contribute to fire through friction. Readily combustible solids are
powdered, granular, or pasty substances that can be easily ignited by brief
contact with an ignition source, such as a burning match. Substances and
mixtures of this hazard class are assigned to one of two hazard categories
based on their test results for burning time when wet and on fire and their
burning rate.

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Aerosols are any compressed, liquefied, or dissolved gas under pressure in

a non-refillable container made of metal, glass, or plastic. The container is
fitted with a release device that allows the contents to be ejected as solid
or liquid particles suspended in a gas; as foam, paste, or powder; or in a
liquid or gaseous state. Classification

Oxidizers
Oxidizers are substances and mixtures that—although they may not be
combustible themselves—may, generally by providing oxygen, cause or
contribute to the combustion of other materials. There are three hazard
classes for oxidizers: oxidizing gases, oxidizing liquids, and oxidizing solids.

Substances and mixtures in the oxidizing gases hazard class are assigned
to a single hazard category. This hazard category is based solely on the
material providing oxygen. An example of an oxidizing gas would be a
cylinder of compressed oxygen.

Substances and mixtures in the oxidizing liquids hazard class are classified
based on the results of measuring the combustion of the material caused by
the liquid producing an abundance oxygen. There are no hazard categories
for oxidizing liquids.

Substances and mixtures in the oxidizing solids hazard class are classified
based on comparing burning test results. There are no hazard categories for
oxidizing solids.

Gases under Pressure

Gases under pressure, such as compressed helium, are gases and gaseous
mixtures contained in a receptacle, cylinder, or as a refrigerated liquid at a
pressure not less than 280 kPa at 20°C. These gases and gaseous mixtures
can pose the risk of a sudden release of pressure and can cause freezing,
serious injury to people, and damage to property and the environment.
There are no hazard categories for gases under pressure.

To classify these gases, the following information is required:

♦ Vapour pressure at 50°C

♦ Physical state at 20°C at a standard ambient pressure of 101.3 kPa:
either gas, liquid, or solid
♦ Critical temperature, which is the temperature above which a pure
gas cannot be turned into a liquid, regardless of the how much it is
compressed

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Keep in mind that some workplace systems may use a different basis for
classification: the physical state when packaged. When classified this way,
gases are placed into one of four groups:

♦ Compressed gases Classification

♦ Liquefied gas
♦ Refrigerated liquefied gases
♦ Dissolved gases

Organic Peroxides
Organic peroxides are organic liquids, solids, and mixtures that have two
oxygen atoms joined together. They may be unstable due to their chemical
makeup and may release energy in the form of light or heat (exothermic
reaction) considered a derivative of hydrogen peroxide, where one or both
of the hydrogen atoms have been replaced by organic radicals. Organic
peroxides may:

♦ Be liable to explosive breakdown

♦ Burn rapidly
♦ Be sensitive to impact or friction
♦ React dangerously with other substances

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Substances and mixtures of this hazard class are assigned to one of seven
types (A to G), as opposed to categories, based on the outcome of testing
set out by the United Nations.

Classification

Self-reactive Substances
Self-reactive substances are thermally unstable liquids or solids liable to
undergo an exothermic reaction even without the participation of oxygen.
This definition excludes materials classified under WHMIS 2015 as
explosives, organic peroxides, or oxidizers.

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Similarly to organic peroxides, self-reactive substances are assigned to one

of seven types (A to G), as opposed to categories, based on the outcome of
lab testing. Currently, only the transport sector uses categories for self-
reactive substances.
Classification

Pyrophoric Substances and Mixtures

Pyrophoric substances and mixtures are substances and mixtures that, even
in small quantities, are likely to spontaneously ignite within five minutes of
coming into contact with air. There are three hazard classes for pyrophoric
substances and mixtures: pyrophoric gases, pyrophoric liquids, and
pyrophoric solids. Each of these hazard classes has a single hazard
category. Substances and mixtures are assigned to this hazard class based
on lab tests results.

Self-heating Substances
Self-heating substances are liquids and solids that, by reaction with air and
without an energy supply, are likely to self-heat. This hazard class differs
from pyrophoric substances in that self-heating substances will ignite only
when in large quantities and after long periods of time, such as hours or
even days. Substances of this hazard class are assigned to one of two
hazard categories based on lab tests results.

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Substances which, in Contact with Water, Emit Flammable Gases

These substances are liquids and solids that, through contact with water,
are liable to become spontaneously flammable or give off flammable gases
in dangerous quantities. Substances of this hazard class are assigned to one
of three hazard categories based on test results measuring the speed at Classification
which gas is created.

Combustible Dusts
Combustible dusts are finely divided solid particles that, if dispersed in air,
may catch fire or, if ignited, may explode. Substances and mixtures in this
hazard class are assigned to a single hazard category.

Simple Asphyxiants
Simply asphyxiants are gases that may displace oxygen in air to cause
rapid suffocation. Substances and mixtures in this hazard class are assigned
to a single hazard category.

Substances Corrosive to Metal

Substances or mixtures that, by chemical action, will damage or even
destroy metals are placed in the corrosive to metal class. These substances
are classified as substances corrosive to metal based on a corrosion rate on
steel or aluminum surfaces exceeding 6.25 mm per year at a test
temperature of 55°C. These substances are classified into a single hazard
category.

Physical Hazards Not Otherwise Classified

This class covers any physical hazards that are not otherwise covered.
These hazards must occur as a result of a chemical reaction and result in the
serious injury or death of a person at the time the reaction occurs. If a
substance or mixture falls under this class, the hazard statement on the
label and SDS will describe the nature of the hazard.

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Health Hazards
Besides physical hazards, health hazards is the other major classification
used by WHMIS 2015 to assign substances and mixtures to classes. Health
hazards are any chemical hazards that may have an adverse effect on
health. There are 12 classes of health hazards: Classification

♦ Acute toxicity
♦ Skin corrosion and irritation
♦ Serious eye damage and eye irritation
♦ Respiratory or skin sensitization
♦ Germ cell mutagenicity
♦ Carcinogenicity
♦ Reproductive toxicity
♦ Specific target organ toxicity (single exposure)
♦ Specific target organ toxicity (repeated exposure)
♦ Aspiration toxicity
♦ Biohazardous infectious materials
♦ Health hazards not otherwise classified (NOC)

Acute Toxicity
Acute toxicity refers to the adverse effects that result from single or
multiple exposures to a toxic substance or mixture over a short period of
time. Substances and mixtures of this hazard class are assigned to one of
five toxicity categories based on their lethal dose or lethal concentration.

Lethal dose, referred to as LD50, is the amount of a chemical taken in all at

once, either orally or via the skin, that causes the death of 50% of a group
of test animals. Lethal concentration, referred to as LC 50, is the
concentration of a chemical in air or mist that, once inhaled, causes the
death of 50% of a group of test animals.

Category 1 is the most severe toxicity category because even a very small
amount of these substances and mixtures can have lethal effects. The lethal
dose and concentration cut-off values of Category 1 are used primarily by
the transport sector.

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Category 5 is used for substances and mixtures that are of relatively low
acute toxicity but which, under certain circumstances, may pose a hazard to
vulnerable populations. In other words, these substances and mixtures are
unlikely to be lethal even in large amounts unless some condition makes
you unusually susceptible to their effects. Classification

Skin Corrosion and Irritation

Skin corrosion is irreversible damage to the skin that occurs up to 4 hours
following contact with a corrosive substance or mixture. Substances and
mixtures of this hazard class are assigned to Category 1 of the three
categories used to classify skin corrosion and irritation. Category 1 not only
has the most severe effect but it is further divided into three subcategories
based on length of exposure to the substance or mixture and how long its
effects last.

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Skin irritation is reversible damage to the skin following contact with a

substance or mixture for up to 4 hours. Substances and mixtures that cause
reversible skin irritation use Categories 2 and 3 of the three categories used
to classify skin corrosion and irritation.
Classification

Serious Eye Damage and Eye Irritation

Eye effects is a term used to describe any serious damage or irritation to
the eyes. Serious eye damage includes irreversible damage to eye tissue or
loss of vision that lasts more than 21 days after a substance or mixture
comes in contact with the front surface of the eye. Substances and mixtures
in this hazard class are assigned to Category 1 of 2 for eye effects.

Eye irritation is any reversible eye change that occurs after a substance or
mixture has come in contact with the front surface of the eye. Substances
and mixtures in this hazard class are assigned to Category 2 for eye effects,
which is further divided into two subcategories based on how long it takes
for the change to be reversed: either within 7 or 21 days.

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Respiratory and Skin Sensitization

Sensitization is the process through which an allergic reaction develops in
normal tissue following repeated exposure to a substance or mixture.
Respiratory sensitization occurs when a substance or mixture causes
hypersensitivity of airways after it has been inhaled. Substances and Classification
mixtures in this hazard class are assigned to one hazard category.

Skin, or contact, sensitization occurs when a substance or mixture induces

an allergic response following skin contact. Substances and mixtures in this
hazard class are assigned to one hazard category.

Germ Cell Mutagenicity

A mutagen is a substance or mixture that increases the occurrence of
mutations by permanently changing the amount or structure of genetic
material of a cell or organism. Substances and mixtures in the germ cell
mutagenicity hazard class are assigned to one of two hazard categories
based on whether they are known or presumed to produce mutations or
just suspected or possibly capable of producing mutations in human germ
cells. Category 1 is further divided into two subcategories based on the type
of positive evidence or results available to support the claim that the
substance or mixture is known to pass on mutations through human germ
cells.

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Carcinogenicity
Carcinogens are substances and mixtures that induce cancer or increase its
incidence. Substances and mixtures in this hazard class are assigned to one
of two hazard categories: Category 1, which has two subcategories based
on whether a substance or mixture is either known or presumed to be a Classification
carcinogen, and Category 2, which is used to classify substances and
mixtures that are merely suspected of being a carcinogen.

Reproductive Toxicity
Reproductive toxicity results in adverse effects on sexual function and
fertility in adult males and females, as well as developmental toxicity in
offspring.

Substances and mixtures with reproductive or developmental effects are

assigned to one of three hazard categories. Category 1 has two
subcategories: one for known reproductive and developmental effects
based on human evidence and another for presumed effects based on
animal evidence. Substances and mixtures are assigned to Category 2 if
they are suspected, based on human or animal evidence or other
information, of having effects on human reproduction or development.

Substances and mixtures that have an effect on or via lactation are assigned
to an additional category.

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Specific Target Organ Toxicity: Single and Repeated Exposure

All significant health effects not otherwise specifically included in WHMIS
2015 that can impair function—whether reversibly or irreversibly,
immediately or eventually—are included in the non-lethal specific target
organ toxicity class. Within this class, a distinction is made between target Classification
organ effects that result from single or repeat exposures. For example,
narcotic effects and respiratory tract irritation are considered to be target
organ effects following a single exposure.

Substances and mixtures of the single exposure specific target organ

toxicity hazard class are assigned to one of three hazard categories.
Substances and mixtures that result in significant toxicity in humans after a
single exposure are assigned to Category 1.

If a substance or mixture is presumed to be harmfully toxic to human health

after single exposure, it is assigned to Category 2.

If a substance or mixture has a short term effect on a target organ after

single exposure, it is assigned to Category 3.

Substances and mixtures of the repeated exposure target organ toxicity

hazard class are assigned to one of two hazard categories. Substances and
mixtures that result in significant toxicity in humans after repeated
exposure are assigned Category 1.

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If a substance or mixture is presumed to be harmfully toxic to human health

after repeated exposure, it is assigned Category 2.

Classification

Aspiration Toxicity
Aspiration toxicity includes severe acute effects such as chemical
pneumonia, varying degrees of pulmonary injury, or death following the
entry of a liquid or solid directly through the oral or nasal cavity, or
indirectly from vomiting into the trachea and lower respiratory system.
Some hydrocarbons such as petroleum distillates have been shown to pose
an aspiration hazard in humans.

Substances and mixtures in the aspiration toxicity class are assigned to one
of two categories. A substance is assigned Category 1 if it is known as or
regarded to be an aspiration hazard in humans.

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 WHMIS 2015

Substances and mixtures are assigned Category 2 if they are presumed to

be an aspiration hazard in humans.

Classification

Biohazardous Infectious Materials

Biohazardous infectious materials are any microorganisms, nucleic acids, or
proteins that cause or are a probable cause of infection, with or without
toxicity, in humans or animals. Substances classified as biohazardous
infectious materials are assigned to a single hazard category.

Health Hazards Not Otherwise Classified

This class is used for health hazards that are different from those already
addressed by one of the other health hazard classes. The hazards of these
substances and mixtures:

♦ Occur via acute or repeated exposure

♦ Have an adverse effect on the health of a person exposed to it,
including possible injury or death

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 WHMIS 2015

CHAPTER 3: LABELS
By the end of this chapter, you should be able to:
Labels
♦ Explain the purpose of a WHMIS 2015 label
♦ List the three standardized label elements
♦ Identify the nine WHMIS 2015 pictograms
♦ Explain what information can be found on a label
♦ Explain the requirements of a workplace label
♦ Describe three label exemption situations

Labels are stickers, papers, or other materials that contain written, printed,
or graphic information concerning a hazardous product. Labels also remind
you to check the hazardous product’s SDS for more detailed safety
information before use or if an incident occurs. Labels are affixed to, printed
on, or attached to the container or outside packaging of a hazardous
product. Because labels are found in these locations, they are often the first
thing you see when encountering a hazardous product. Therefore, labels are
a crucial source of information and a major means of communication in the
workplace.

Because labels signal to everyone in the workplace that a container holds a

hazardous product, consistency is needed across labelling to eliminate
confusion. Accordingly, the WHMIS 2015 labelling system is the new
standard for delivering relevant information to keep everyone who comes
into contact with a hazardous product safe.

WHMIS 2015 label elements have been either standardized to the United
Nations recommendations or harmonized with common definitions or
principles.

The standardized WHMIS 2015 label elements include:

♦ _______________________________________________________________________
♦ _______________________________________________________________________
♦ _______________________________________________________________________

This approach makes it easy for companies to implement the WHMIS 2015
system because the symbols, pictograms, signal words, and hazard
statements have all been assigned to specific hazard categories and classes
as appropriate, and are not subject to variation.

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 WHMIS 2015

SYMBOLS AND PICTOGRAMS

WHMIS 2015 symbols are graphic elements used to succinctly convey
physical and health hazard information assigned to each WHMIS 2015
hazard class and category. These symbols have been incorporated into the Labels
pictograms used on WHMIS 2015 labels. These pictograms are comprised
of a WHMIS 2015 hazard symbol and other graphic elements—including a
border, background pattern, and colour—intended to convey specific
information. WHMIS 2015 pictograms appear as a black symbol with a red
diamond frame and a white background.

Pictograms and Hazard Classes

Under WHMIS 2015, nine pictograms are used to identify the majority of the
31 hazard classes:

This pictogram identifies:

♦ Oxidizers

This pictogram identifies:

♦ Flammables (excluding Category 2 Flammable

Gases and Category 4 Flammable Liquids)
♦ Self-reactives (excluding Types A, B, and G)
♦ Pyrophorics
♦ Self-heating substances
♦ Substances which, in contact with water, emit flammable gases
♦ Organic peroxides (excluding Types A, B, and G)

This pictogram identifies:

♦ Self-reactives
♦ Organic peroxides

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 WHMIS 2015

This pictogram identifies:

♦ Acute toxicity (Categories 1 through 3) Labels

This pictogram identifies:

♦ Skin corrosion
♦ Substances corrosive to metal

This pictogram identifies:

♦ Gases under pressure

This pictogram identifies:

♦ Carcinogens
♦ Respiratory sensitizers
♦ Reproductive toxicity (excluding effects on or via
lactation)
♦ Single and repeated exposure specific target organ toxicity effects
(excluding narcotic effects and respiratory tract irritation following a
single exposure)
♦ Germ cell mutagenicity
♦ Aspiration toxicity

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 WHMIS 2015

This pictogram identifies:

♦ Skin irritation Labels

♦ Skin sensitization
♦ Harmful acute toxicity (Categories 4 and 5)
♦ Single exposure specific target organ toxicity
effects for narcotic effects and respiratory tract irritation
♦ Serious eye damage
♦ Eye irritation that lasts more than 7 days

This pictogram identifies:

♦ Biohazardous infectious materials

Did you notice that some hazardous substances and mixtures were missing?
This is because even though some substances and mixtures may meet the
criteria for a hazard class or category they do not require a pictogram
under WHMIS 2015. These include:

♦ Category 2 Flammable Gases

♦ Category 4 Flammable Liquids
♦ Self-reactive substances (Type G)
♦ Organic peroxides (Type G)
♦ Category 1 Combustible Dusts
♦ Category 1 Simple Asphyxiants
♦ Category 2B Eye Irritation
♦ Reproductive toxicity with effects on or via lactation

In these cases, the product label and Hazards Identification section of the
SDS still require the signal word, hazard statements, and any other required
label elements.

30
 WHMIS 2015

In other situations a substance or mixture may present more than one

WHMIS 2015 hazard. If this is the case, the precedence of symbols on the
label follows the rules of the UN Model Regulations:

♦ _______________________________________________________________________ Labels
_______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________
♦ _______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________
♦ _______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________

SIGNAL WORDS
Signal words are words that are standardized and used to indicate the
relative level of severity assigned to a hazard's class and category. WHMIS
2015 uses two signal words:

♦ Danger:

_______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________
♦ Warning:

_______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________

If a substance or mixture belongs to multiple classes, only the signal word

corresponding to the most severe hazard class should appear on the label.
In other words, if the signal words "Danger" and “Warning” both apply to a
substance, only the signal word "Danger" will appear on the label.

Note that some low level hazard categories, such as irritants, do not use
signal words.

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 WHMIS 2015

HAZARD STATEMENTS
In addition to pictograms and signal words, WHMIS 2015 labels contain
hazard statement information. This information is used to provide you with
important details you need to remain safe when working with or around Labels
hazardous products. To illustrate the additional information found on a
label, we will look at the WHMIS 2015 label for methanol:

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 WHMIS 2015

Product Identifier
The first piece of information found on the WHMIS 2015 label for methanol
is the product identifier. The product identifier is the chemical name for a
hazardous product. It is included on both the WHMIS 2015 label and SDS. In
our example, the product identifier is methanol. Labels

Where a product is supplied exclusively for workplace use, Health Canada

may give suppliers discretion to include chemical names or descriptions on
the SDS in lieu of including them on labels.

Hazard Statement
The next pieces of information found on the WHMIS 2015 label for methanol
are the hazardous product’s signal word, applicable pictograms, and hazard
statement. A hazard statement is a standardized phrase assigned to a
hazard class and category that describes the nature of the product’s
hazards, including, where appropriate, its degree of hazard. An appropriate
statement for each hazard should be included on the label for products
possessing more than one hazard. Health Canada may choose to specify the
order in which they appear.

For methanol, the hazard statements are:

♦ Toxic if swallowed
♦ Flammable liquid and vapour

Precautionary Statements
Precautionary statements, found next on this WHMIS 2015 label, provide
measures to take that will minimize or prevent adverse effects from
exposure to or improper storage or handling of physical and health hazards.
In the case of methanol, examples of precautionary statements include:
♦ Do not drink or eat when using this product
♦ Wash hands thoroughly after handling
♦ Keep container tightly closed

Precautionary statements also include first aid instructions, such as "If

swallowed, immediately call the poison control centre."

Supplemental Information
A supplemental information section is sometimes included on a hazardous
product label even though it is not required or specified under WHMIS 2015.
In some cases, Health Canada may require specific information be included
here or manufacturers or distributors may include additional information
here at their own discretion.

Supplemental information should provide further detail that does not

contradict or cast doubt on the validity of WHMIS 2015 hazard information.
It can also provide information about hazards not yet incorporated into
WHMIS 2015. Additionally, this section gives labellers the opportunity to

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 WHMIS 2015

provide supplementary information—such as physical state or route of

entry—with the hazard statement.

Supplier Identification
Lastly, this label includes supplier identification details. This includes the Labels
name, address, and telephone number of the manufacturer or supplier of
the product.

TRANSPORTATION LABELS
When hazardous products are shipped, they may be transported using
combination packages. Combination packages include outer packaging,
such as a fiberboard box, as well as inner packaging, such as plastic bottles.
In these situations, the shipping box will have the appropriate
Transportation of Dangerous Goods (TDG) labels and markings while the
bottles inside will each have a WHMIS 2015 label with the corresponding
WHMIS 2015 pictogram.

Hazardous products may also be shipped in single packaging, such as a 205

L drum. In this case, TDG labels and markings and WHMIS 2015 label
elements may be either combined or presented separately. As you can see
in this example, both pictograms and markings required by transport
regulations as well as WHMIS 2015 are provided.

WORKPLACE LABELS
A workplace is any establishment, job site, or project at one geographical
location containing one or more work areas. When products classified
under WHMIS 2015 are supplied to your workplace, a WHMIS 2015 label
should be maintained on the supplied container. Additionally, your
employer must ensure that all containers of hazardous products at your
workplace are labelled, tagged, or marked with a WHMIS 2015 label or a
workplace label.

Workplace labels are labels produced and attached to workplace

containers. They are different from WHMIS 2015 labels as they require only
three pieces of information:

♦ _______________________________________________________________________
♦ _______________________________________________________________________
♦ _______________________________________________________________________

Workplace labels may be pre-printed, computer-generated, or handwritten

as long as they are legible. In addition to traditional labels, information may
be affixed to the container using tags, clear writing directly on the
container, or any other method so long as the information is clearly
identified.

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 WHMIS 2015

Workplace labels are used when:

♦ _______________________________________________________________________
Labels
_______________________________________________________________________
♦ _______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________
♦ _______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________

If you receive or notice a product that has a damaged, obscured, or missing

label, you must notify your employer. If you are unable to label a container
yourself, ask for help from a co-worker or your employer. For the safety of
all workers, all hazards in the workplace should be identified, so you cannot
use the product until an appropriate label is supplied.

Because it is the employer’s responsibility to protect workers, employers

must ensure labels, in conjunction with other written and supplemental
information:

♦ _______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________
♦ _______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________

LABEL EXEMPTIONS
Despite being classified as a physical or health hazard under WHMIS 2015,
there are certain situations in which hazardous products do not require
WHMIS 2015 labels.

Portable Containers
If a hazardous product is intended for immediate use, your employer is not
required to label portable containers into which the hazardous product is
transferred if the hazardous product:

♦ _______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________
♦ _______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________

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 WHMIS 2015

Workplace containers that hazardous products may be transferred into

from their labelled containers include:

♦ _______________________________________________________________________ Labels

♦ _______________________________________________________________________
♦ _______________________________________________________________________
♦ _______________________________________________________________________
♦ _______________________________________________________________________

Additionally, hazardous products such as drugs may be transferred from

their labelled containers when being dispensed by a pharmacy to a health
care provider for direct administration to patients.

Small Containers
When a container cannot hold more than 100 mL of a hazardous product,
the supplier label is only required to show:

♦ _______________________________________________________________________
♦ _______________________________________________________________________
♦ _______________________________________________________________________
♦ _______________________________________________________________________

When containers cannot hold more than 3 mL of hazardous product, you

may find that the label interferes with normal product use. If this is the case,
the product must have a label that is durable and legible for transport and
storage, but may be removed during use.

Laboratory Use
Hazardous products from a laboratory supply house that are intended for
use in a laboratory and are kept in containers that are less than 10 kg (or 22
lbs) only need to be labelled with the following information:

♦ _______________________________________________________________________
♦ _______________________________________________________________________
♦ _______________________________________________________________________
♦ _______________________________________________________________________
♦ _______________________________________________________________________

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 WHMIS 2015

When laboratory samples of hazardous products are packaged in

containers of less than 10 kg and do not have an SDS, a label containing the
following information is required:
Labels
♦ _______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________
♦ _______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________
♦ _______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________
♦ _______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________
♦ _______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________

Bulk Shipments
For bulk shipments of hazardous products that are 454 L or more, the
product supplier only needs to provide labelling information for the
shipment in one of the following 3 ways:

♦ _______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________
♦ _______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________
♦ _______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________

This could be the case for retail distributors with commercial accounts that
sell hazardous products to employers in large quantities over time and at
costs that are below the regular retail price.

Hazardous Waste
Even though hazardous waste is regulated under environmental legislation
and not WHMIS 2015, it must still be properly identified at your workplace
according to provincial regulations for the purposes of hazard recognition

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 WHMIS 2015

and your safety. If your employer requires you to handle hazardous waste,
you must be trained in its proper storage, labelling, and handling.

Hazardous Products
Some hazardous products in the workplace are exempt from WHMIS 2015 Labels
labelling and SDS requirements. However, they may still require labelling
under other safety regulations. Your employer must train you in the hazards
of these exempt products, which include:

♦ Explosives:

_______________________________________________________________________
♦ Cosmetics, devices, drugs, or food:

_______________________________________________________________________
♦ Pest control products:

_______________________________________________________________________
♦ Radioactive materials:

_______________________________________________________________________
♦ Consumer products—such as aerosols, cleaners, paint, and adhesives:

_______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________
♦ Wood, products made of wood, and tobacco
♦ Manufactured articles not intended to release the hazard under
normal use:

_______________________________________________________________________
♦ Products regulated under TDG while in transport, loading, or
unloading

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 WHMIS 2015

CHAPTER 4: SAFETY DATA SHEETS

By the end of this chapter, you should be able to:
Safety Data
Sheets
♦ Explain the purpose of safety data sheets
♦ Describe the information they contain
♦ Explain how they should be used
♦ Identify the responsibilities of the manufacturer, supplier, and
distributor, your employer, and you as they relate to SDS’s

Safety data sheets (SDS's), formerly known as material safety data sheets
(MSDS's) under WHMIS 1988, are technical safety documents that contain
information meant to enable safe work with hazardous products. SDS’s
teach you about the potential hazards of a product, explain how to protect
yourself prior to working with, handling, or storing the product, as well as
provide instructions on what to do during an incident. Every hazardous
product must be accompanied by an SDS.

SAFETY DATA SHEET SECTIONS

SDS’s are separated into 16 sections. Sections 1 through 11 and section 16
are mandatory, while sections 12 through 15 are not.

Each section of an SDS identifies very specific safety information for

everyone, including hygienists, doctors, first responders, employers,
suppliers, and you. Some information will be technical information required
by first responders and doctors, while other information will be more
important for employers and you. Regardless of occupation, everyone
should become familiar with the hazards, precautions, and response
procedures outlined in the SDS's.

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WHMIS 2015

Safety Data
Sheets

40
WHMIS 2015

Safety Data
Sheets

41
WHMIS 2015

Safety Data
Sheets

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WHMIS 2015

Safety Data
Sheets

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WHMIS 2015

Safety Data
Sheets

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WHMIS 2015

Safety Data
Sheets

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 WHMIS 2015

Safety Data
Sheets

SDS RESPONSIBILITIES
The manufacturer, supplier, or distributor of a hazardous product is
responsible for providing and subsequently updating SDS’s whenever the
hazardous product, safety information on the SDS, or any other pertinent
information is changed.

It is the responsibility of your employer to ensure that SDS’s are readily

available to you and that you are trained and competent in their use.

Your training should explain:

♦ ______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
♦ ______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
♦ ______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________

It is your responsibility to review the SDS's in your workplace to verify the

information complies with WHMIS 2015 standards and that the SDS’s are
easy to understand. If you receive or notice a hazardous product without an
SDS, cannot locate an SDS, or notice an SDS is not current with all the
correct information, you must notify your employer.

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 WHMIS 2015

CHAPTER 5: RIGHTS, RESPONSIBILITIES,

EDUCATION, AND TRAINING
By the end of the chapter, you should be able to: Rights and
Responsibilities
♦ List your rights as a worker
♦ List the responsibilities of your employer
♦ Explain the importance of education and training

RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

As a worker, when it comes to hazardous products, you have the right to:

♦ _______________________________________________________________________
♦ _______________________________________________________________________
♦ _______________________________________________________________________
♦ _______________________________________________________________________
♦ _______________________________________________________________________
♦ _______________________________________________________________________

To ensure your rights and safety are maintained, your employer must
provide a safe workplace by:

♦ _______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________
♦ _______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________
♦ _______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________
♦ _______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________
♦ _______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________
♦ _______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________

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 WHMIS 2015

EDUCATION AND TRAINING

Education and training are not only crucial to the WHMIS 2015 system and
keeping you safe, but as you now know, they are also part of your rights
and your employer’s responsibilities. You must be educated and trained in Education and
WHMIS 2015 even if you do not directly handle or use hazardous products Training
as you may still work near hazardous products that could put you at risk.

Educating you about WHMIS 2015 involves explaining what WHMIS 2015 is
in order to help you understand the key parts of the system and how they
affect you and apply to your workplace. Training, on the other hand, should
be hands-on, should include function and job specific information, and
should involve you in implementing the WHMIS 2015 system into your
workplace.

Your education and training must cover:

♦ _______________________________________________________________________
♦ _______________________________________________________________________
♦ _______________________________________________________________________
♦ _______________________________________________________________________
♦ _______________________________________________________________________
♦ _______________________________________________________________________
♦ _______________________________________________________________________
♦ _______________________________________________________________________

Your education and training may also involve completing labels and
reviewing SDS's, your company's safe work procedures, and what to do in
emergency situations.

Your employer may require you to complete additional education and

training if:

♦ _______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________
♦ _______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________
♦ _______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________

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 WHMIS 2015

♦ _______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________

Education and
Education and training should be reviewed by your employer on at least an Training
annual basis and be maintained at all times as it’s your employer’s
responsibility to determine whether or not your education and training is
adequate. If you do not know how to interpret the information on WHMIS
2015 labels or SDS's or you have not been provided training on them, your
safety may be in jeopardy. Remember, it’s your employer’s responsibility to
protect you. This means that if you are new to your company, it’s important
that you are educated and trained as soon as possible to ensure your
protection and the protection of all other employees in your workplace.

Proof of Training
Once educated and trained in WHMIS 2015, you must be able to prove
hands-on competency. It’s your employer’s responsibility to provide proof,
when required by Health Canada or other regulators, that you have a sound
knowledge and understanding of WHMIS 2015 and can implement the
system into your workplace and, more specifically, into your job duties.

Despite that fact that hands-on proof of competency may be required,

there is no legal requirement for your employer or you to provide any form
of certification. It is customary in some industries to do so, but certification
is not a guaranteed way to prove competency.

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 WHMIS 2015

GLOSSARY
A Glossary

Aerosols — any compressed, liquefied, or dissolved gas under pressure in

a non-refillable container made of metal, glass, or plastic. Aerosols include
aerosol dispensers with or without a liquid, paste, or powder that are fitted
with a release device that allows the contents to be ejected as solid or
liquid particles suspended in a gas; as foam, paste, or powder; or in a liquid
or gaseous state.

ATE — stands for acute toxicity estimate. This includes the LD50, LC50, and
the acute toxicity point estimate.

Aspiration — the entry of a liquid or solid hazardous product into the

trachea and lower respiratory system either indirectly from vomiting or
directly through the oral or nasal cavity.

Auto-ignition — the temperature at which a substance can self-ignite or

explode, primarily when reacting with air.

C
Carcinogen — a substance or mixture that induces cancer or increases its
incidence.

CAS — stands for Chemical Abstract Service.

Chemical — any substance or mixture of substances.

Chemical manufacturer — an employer with a workplace where

chemicals are produced for use or distribution.

Chemical name — the scientific designation of a chemical in accordance

with the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC)
nomenclature system or the Chemical Abstract Service (CAS) rules of
nomenclature. The chemical name may also be a name that will clearly
identify the chemical for the purpose of classifying a hazard.

Classification — the process of identifying relevant data regarding the

hazards of a chemical; reviewing the data to ascertain the hazards; and
deciding whether the chemical will be classified as hazardous according to
the definition of a hazardous product. In addition, classification for physical

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 WHMIS 2015

and health hazards includes determining the degree of hazard, where

appropriate, by comparing data with the criteria for physical and health
hazards.

Commercial account — an arrangement whereby a retail distributor sells Glossary

hazardous products to an employer, generally in large quantities over time
and/or at costs that are below the regular retail price.

Contact sensitizer — a substance that induces an allergic response

following skin contact (also known as a skin sensitizer).

Container — any bag, barrel, bottle, box, can, cylinder, drum, reaction
vessel, storage tank, or the like that contains a hazardous product. Pipes or
piping systems as well as engines, fuel tanks, or other operating systems in
a vehicle are not considered containers.

Corrosive to metal — a substance or mixture that, by chemical action,

will materially damage or even destroy metals.

Criteria — the technical definition for physical and health hazards.

Critical temperature — the temperature above which a pure gas cannot

be turned into a liquid, regardless of how much it is compressed.

D
Dermal corrosion — see skin corrosion.

Dermal irritation — see skin irritation.

Designated representative — any individual or organization to whom an

employee gives written authorization to exercise his/her rights. A
recognized or certified collective bargaining agent can be treated
automatically as a designated representative without an employee's written
authorization.

Dissolved gas — a gas that, when packaged under pressure, is dissolved

in a liquid phase solvent.

Distributor — a business, other than a chemical manufacturer or importer,

that supplies hazardous products to employers or other distributors.

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 WHMIS 2015

E
Employer — a person engaged in a business where hazardous products
are either used, distributed, or are produced for use or distribution,
Glossary
including a contractor or subcontractor.

End point — physical, health, and environmental hazards.

Exposure (or exposed) — when an employee is subjected, in the course

of employment, to a hazardous product classified as a physical or health
hazard. This includes potential (e.g. accidental or possible) exposure.
“Subjected,” in terms of health hazards, includes any route of entry (e.g.
inhalation, ingestion, skin contact, or absorption).

Eye irritation — any reversible eye change that occurs after a substance
or mixture has come in contact with the front surface of the eye. This
change must be fully reversible within 21 days of application.

F
Flammable gas — a gas that is easily set on fire in air at 20°C at a
standard pressure of 101.3 kPa.

Flammable liquid — a liquid that has a flash point of less than or equal to
93°C.

Flammable solid — a solid that is readily combustible or may cause or

contribute to fire through friction.

Flash point — the lowest temperature at which a vapour can ignite.

Foreseeable emergency — any potential occurrence—such as, but not

limited to, equipment failure, rupture of containers, or failure of control
equipment—that could result in an uncontrolled release of a hazardous
product into the workplace.

G
Gas — a substance that either has a vapour pressure greater than 300 kPa
at 50°C or is completely gaseous at 20°C and a standard pressure of 101.3
kPa.

GHS — the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of

Chemicals.

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 WHMIS 2015

H
Hazard category — a division within a hazard class based on the hazard's Glossary
severity (e.g. acute toxicity includes five hazard categories and flammable
liquids include four hazard categories).

Hazard class — criteria used to classify a hazard based on its nature:

either physical or health. For example, a substance or mixture that is
acutely toxic, which is a health hazard, would belong to the acute toxicity
class.

Hazard not otherwise classified (HNOC) — an adverse physical or

health effect identified through scientific evidence during the classification
process that does not meet the specified criteria for the WHMIS 2015
physical and health hazard classes. This does not include adverse physical
and health effects that fall below the cut-off value or concentration limit of
a WHMIS 2015 hazard class or fall under a WHMIS 2015 hazard category
that has not been adopted by Health Canada (e.g. Acute Toxicity Category
5).

Hazardous product — any chemical classified as a physical or health

hazard (e.g. a simple asphyxiant, combustible dust, pyrophoric gas, or
hazard not otherwise classified).

Hazard statement — a standardized phrase assigned to a hazard class

and category that describes the nature of the product's hazards, including,
where appropriate, its degree of hazard.

Health hazard — any chemical hazard that may have an adverse effect on
health.

I
Immediate use — when a hazardous product is transferred from a
labelled container to be used within the same work shift and only under the
control of the person who transferred it.

Importer — a business that receives hazardous products produced in other

countries for the purpose of supplying them to distributors or employers
within Canada.

Initial boiling point — the temperature of a liquid at which its vapour

pressure is equal to the standard pressure (101.3 kPa); i.e. when the first gas
bubble appears.

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 WHMIS 2015

L
Label — material containing written, printed, or graphic information Glossary
elements concerning a hazardous product as relevant to the target
sector(s). A label is affixed to, printed on, or attached to the immediate
container or outside packaging of a hazardous product.

Label element — information that has been standardized for use on a

label (e.g. a pictogram, signal word, or hazard statement).

LC50 (lethal concentration) — the concentration of a chemical in air or

mist that, once inhaled, causes the death of 50% of a group of test animals.

LD50 (lethal dose) — the amount of a chemical taken in all at once, either
orally or via the skin, that causes the death of 50% of a group of test
animals.

Liquefied gas — a gas that, when packaged under pressure, is partially

liquid at temperatures above –50°C.

Liquid — a substance or mixture that has a vapour pressure of not more

than 300 kPa at 50°C, is not completely gaseous at 20°C and a standard
pressure of 101.3 kPa, and has a melting point or initial melting point of
20°C or less at a standard pressure of 101.3 kPa.

M
Mixture — a solution composed of two or more substances that do not
react.

Mutagen — a substance or mixture that increases the occurrence of

mutations in populations of cells or organisms.

Mutation — a permanent change in the amount or structure of genetic

material in a cell.

O
Odour threshold — the lowest concentration of an odour perceivable by
the human sense of smell.

Oxidizing gas — a gas that may, generally by providing oxygen, cause or

contribute to the combustion of other materials.

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 WHMIS 2015

Oxidizing liquid — a liquid that—although it may not be combustible

itself—may, generally by providing oxygen, cause or contribute to the
combustion of other materials.
Glossary
Oxidizing solid — a solid that—although it may not be combustible
itself—may, generally by providing oxygen, cause or contribute to the
combustion of other materials.

P
pH — a numeric scale that determines whether a substance is acidic or
basic. Below 7 is acidic, 7 is neutral (e.g. water), and above 7 up to 14 is
basic.

Physical hazard — any chemical hazard that may pose a risk to your
physical safety.

Pictogram —a graphical composition comprised of a WHMIS 2015 hazard

symbol and other graphic elements—including a border, background
pattern, and colour—intended to convey specific information.

Precautionary statement — a phrase and/or pictogram that provides

measures to be taken to minimize or prevent adverse effects from exposure
to or improper storage or handling of a hazardous product. A precautionary
statement also includes first aid instructions (e.g. "If swallowed,
immediately call the poison control centre").

Product identifier — the chemical name or number for a hazardous

product used on a label or in the SDS so that the product user can identify
the substance or mixture within the particular use setting (e.g. transport,
consumer, or workplace).

Pyrophoric liquid — a liquid that, even in small quantities, is likely to

spontaneously ignite within five minutes of coming into contact with air.

Pyrophoric solid — a solid that, even in small quantities, is likely to

spontaneously ignite within five minutes of coming into contact with air.

Pyrotechnic article — an article containing one or more pyrotechnic

substances.

Pyrotechnic substance — a substance or mixture designed to produce

heat, light, sound, gas, smoke, or a combination of these as the result of
non-detonative, self-sustaining exothermic chemical reactions.

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R
Readily combustible solid — a powdered, granular, or pasty substance
or mixture that can be easily ignited by brief contact with an ignition
Glossary
source, such as a burning match.

Relative density — the ratio of a unit volume's mass to the density of a

given reference material. For example, specific gravity usually means
relative density with respect to water. The term "relative density" is often
preferred in modern scientific usage.

Respiratory sensitizer — a substance that may cause the brain and body
to trigger allergic or allergic-like responses, such as hypersensitivity of the
airways, following inhalation.

Responsible party — someone who can provide additional information

on the hazardous product and appropriate emergency procedures if
necessary.

Route of entry — the way a hazardous product enters your body (e.g.
inhalation). Hazardous products may have serious effects when they enter
your body by one route but minimal effects by another.

S
Safety Data Sheets (SDS) — a technical safety document that contains
information meant to enable safe work with hazardous products and used
interchangeably with Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS's).

Self-heating substance — a solid or liquid substance that, by reaction

with air and without an energy supply, is likely to self-heat. This hazard
class differs from pyrophoric substances in that self-heating substances will
ignite only when in large quantities and after long periods of time, such as
hours or even days.

Self-reactive substance — a thermally unstable liquid or solid liable to

undergo an exothermic reaction even without the participation of oxygen.
This definition excludes materials classified under WHMIS 2015 as
explosives, organic peroxides, or oxidizers.

Serious eye damage — irreversible damage to eye tissue or loss of vision

that lasts more than 21 days after a substance or mixture comes in contact
with the front surface of the eye.

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Signal word — a standardized word used to indicate the relative level of

severity assigned to a hazard's class and category (e.g. Danger and
Warning).

Simple asphyxiant — gases that may displace oxygen in air to cause Glossary
rapid suffocation, leading to unconsciousness and death.

Skin corrosion — irreversible damage to the skin that occurs up to 4

hours following contact with a corrosive substance or mixture.

Skin irritation — reversible damage to the skin following contact with a

substance or mixture for up to 4 hours.

Skin sensitizer — a substance that induces an allergic response following

skin contact (also known as a contact sensitizer).

Solid — a substance or mixture that does not meet the definitions of a

liquid or gas.

Solubility — the ability of a solid, liquid, or gaseous substance to dissolve

in a solid, liquid, or gaseous solvent to form a solution.

Standard pressure — the nominal conditions at sea level (101.3 kPa).

Substance — a combination of chemical elements and their compounds

that are either naturally occurring or have been created through a
production process. A substance includes any additives necessary to
preserve the substance’s stability and any impurities derived from any
process used to create the substance. A substance does not include any
solvent that may be separated without affecting the substance’s stability or
composition.

Substance which, in contact with water, emits flammable gases

— liquids and solids that, through contact with water, are liable to become
spontaneously flammable or give off flammable gases in dangerous
quantities.

Supplemental label element — any additional non-standardized

information supplied on the container of a hazardous product that is not
required or specified under WHMIS 2015. In some cases, this information
may be required by other competent authorities or provided at the
discretion of the manufacturer or distributor.

Symbol — a graphic element used to succinctly convey physical and health

hazard information assigned to each WHMIS 2015 hazard class and
category.

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T
Technical name — a name other than the chemical name generally used in
commerce, regulations, and codes to identify a substance or mixture.
Glossary
Technical names are recognized by the scientific community; for example,
the technical names used for complex mixtures (e.g. petroleum fractions or
natural products), pesticides (e.g. ISO or ANSI systems), dyestuffs (e.g.
Color Index system), and minerals.

Trade secret — any confidential formula, pattern, process, device,

information, or compilation of information that is used in an employer’s
business and gives the employer an advantage over competitors who do
not know or use it.

U
Upper and lower flammability or explosive limits — the greatest
and least percentages of a substance in air required to ignite and cause an
explosion.

Use — to package, handle, react, emit, extract, generate as a by-product, or

transfer.

V
Vapour density — the volumetric mass of a vapour in relation to that of
air. Air is equal to 1; therefore, greater than 1 is heavier than air, and the
vapour will settle toward the ground.

Vapour pressure — the maximum pressure at which a vapour will erupt at

the highest temperature.

Viscosity — a fluid's thickness, when referring to a liquid, and resistance to

gradual deformation by shear stress or tensile stress.

W
Work area — a room or defined space in a workplace where employees
are present and hazardous products are produced or used.

Workplace — an establishment, job site, or project, at one geographical

location containing one or more work areas.

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