WHMIS Requirements for Employers

Safety is the paramount concern with WHMIS. Once you have completed your training, you know your workplace responsibilities. You may still be wondering what your employer must do to keep you safe. Your employer must follow several guidelines to ensure workplace safety:

1. All controlled products must be labeled appropriately before using, storing, handling, or disposing of those products in the workplace.
2. SDS sheets must be readily available, and your employer must train you to follow them.
3. Educate you about storing, handling, and disposing of controlled products.
4. They must provide you with Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to handle hazardous products safely.

Employer Responsibilities Under WHMIS – A Quick Guide

Employers in Canada have critical responsibilities under the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) to ensure worker safety when handling hazardous materials. Key obligations include:

Proper Labeling & Hazard Warnings

• Supplier-provided containers must display WHMIS supplier labels and remain legible.
• Workplace-produced hazardous materials require clear hazard warnings (labels, tags, or markings) with:
  • A product identifier (e.g., chemical name, code).
  • Safe handling, storage, and usage instructions.
  • Reference to the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS).
• Special labeling rules apply for pipes, tanks, conveyors, and lab environments.

Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS)

• Employers must obtain or create MSDSs for all controlled products used in the workplace.
• MSDS must be updated every three years (or sooner if new hazards are identified).
• Workers must have easy access to MSDSs at all times.

Employee Training & Education

Employers must train workers who handle or are exposed to hazardous materials, covering:

• WHMIS labels (supplier & workplace) and their significance.
• MSDS content and how to use it.
• Safe handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous materials.
• Emergency procedures in case of exposure or spills.

Training must be reviewed annually or when new hazards arise.

Hazard Identification & Confidential Business Information

• Employers must assess workplace-produced chemicals using Controlled Products Regulations.
• Key ingredients must be disclosed on MSDSs unless exempt under confidential business information (CBI) claims.
• CBI claims must be submitted to the Hazardous Materials Information Review Commission (HMIRC).
• In emergencies, doctors/nurses must receive full disclosure for medical treatment.