Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System
The Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) is a Canada-wide system to inform workers about hazardous materials they may be exposed to and ensure they know how to work safely with them.
WHMIS revolves around three main concepts:
- Labels
- Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS)
- Worker Education
At a minimum, the employer must ensure that all WHMIS controlled products received, stored or used by their company are properly identified and supplied with appropriate labels and MSDS.
All employees must receive training in WHMIS prior to using any controlled product to ensure that:
They recognise and understand the WHMIS label attached to the controlled product;
They know where to access the MSDS, know to refer to the MSDS prior to using the controlled product and understand the information presented on the MSDS;
They can identify, handle, store and work safely with the controlled products to which they may be exposed.
It is recommended that, as with all safety training, WHMIS training be documented and a copy retained on file.
Yukon Workers' Compensation Health and Safety Board
