In Canada, the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) has been a cornerstone of workplace safety for many years. However, with the global adoption of the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS), Canada has recently transitioned from WHMIS to WHMIS with GHS.
This transition occurred in two phases, with the final phase completed in 2018. The GHS-aligned WHMIS significantly changes how hazardous materials are classified, labeled, and communicated to workers.
This blog will explore the main difference between WHMIS 1988 and 2015 SDS formats and why these changes were made. Understanding these differences is essential for maintaining workplace safety and compliance with WHMIS regulations.
Employers need to understand these changes and ensure that they provide the necessary training and information to ensure their workplace safety.
The Transition Phases of WHMIS 1998 to Whmis 2015 The transition from WHMIS 1988 to WHMIS 2015 in Canada took place in three phases, with the first phase beginning in 2015 and the final phase completed in 2018.
The transition was necessary to align with the global adoption of the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS).
Employers are responsible for WHMIS training and ensuring that their workers understand the changes that have been made during the transition from WHMIS 1988 to WHMIS 2015 with GHS. This included providing updated Safety Data Sheets (SDS), ensuring proper labeling of hazardous materials, and providing employee training on the new hazard classes and symbols.
Phase Time Period Manufacturers & Importers Distributors Employers
1 Feb. 11, 2015 - May 31, 2018 May use either WHMIS 1988 or WHMIS 2015 May continue to distribute products with WHMIS 1988 labels or implement the new WHMIS 2015 labels Consult with the Federal/Provincial/Territorial Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) regulator to determine what is required to comply with the new WHMIS 2015 requirements.
2 June 1, 2018 - Aug. 31, 2018 Must begin using WHMIS 2015 labels for hazardous products shipped, sold or imported into Canada. May continue to distribute products with WHMIS 1988 labels or implement the new WHMIS 2015 labels WHMIS 1988
3 Sept. 1, 2018 - Nov. 30, 2018 Must use WHMIS 2015 labels for all hazardous products shipped, sold, or imported into Canada. Must only sell or distribute products with WHMIS 2015 labels WHMIS 1988
Completion Dec. 1, 2018 Must use WHMIS 2015 labels for all hazardous products in the workplace. Must only sell or distribute products with WHMIS 2015 labels Whmis 2015
The transition to WHMIS 2015 with GHS has significantly changed how hazardous materials are classified, communicated, and labeled in Canada, and WHMIS training online can help you explore the new approaches in detail.
What Were the Key Updates and Changes Introduced in the Transition From WHMIS 1988 to WHMIS 2015 Here are some of the critical updates and changes introduced in the transition from WHMIS 1988 to WHMIS 2015:
WHMIS 2015 now aligns with the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS). New hazard classes were introduced, such as aspirating hazards and specific target organ toxicity. The previous WHMIS system had symbols based on the shapes of the symbol, but the new system has more standardized and easily recognized pictograms. The old Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) was replaced with the latest Safety Data Sheet (SDS), which has a 16-section format. Hazard classification criteria have been updated to be more specific and scientifically based. Employers must now provide general and site-specific WHMIS training to employees. The new system strongly focuses on WHMIS risk assessment and prevention, emphasizing preventive measures. The use of signal words such as "Danger" and "Warning" has been standardized to communicate the level of hazard associated with the product.
WHMIS 1988 vs. WHMIS 2015: Comparison Table Here is a comparison table highlighting the key differences between WHMIS 1988 and WHMIS 2015:
Particulars WHMIS 1988 WHMIS 2015
Hazard classes 6 33
Labels Use of hazard symbols based on shape Use of standardized pictograms and signal words
Safety Data Sheet Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) Safety Data Sheet (SDS) with 16 standardized sections
Hazard groups Flammable, Oxidizing, Toxic, Corrosive, Reactive, Compressed Gas Physical hazards, Health hazards, Environmental hazards
Training No standardized training requirements General and site-specific training requirements for employees
Precautionary measures No specific emphasis on risk assessment and prevention Stronger focus on risk assessment and prevention measures
Classification criteria Broad and general hazard classifications More specific and scientifically based hazard classifications
Aligns with GHS No Yes
It's important to note that WHMIS 2015 is a more comprehensive and updated system that aligns with the GHS, making it easier for employers and employees to understand the hazards associated with chemicals and products used in the workplace. The importance of WHMIS training cannot be overstated in maintaining a safe and healthy workplace for all.
WHMIS 1998 Sympbols:
WHMIS 2015 Symbols:
Final Words
The transition from WHMIS 1998 to WHMIS 2015 with GHS has significantly changed how hazardous materials are classified, communicated, and labeled in Canada. The new WHMIS 2015 SDS format is more comprehensive and standardized, while the WHMIS 1998 MSDS format was more general in nature. With the advancements in technology, individuals can now conveniently obtain their WHMIS certification online .
In addition, introducing new hazard classes and symbols provides clearer and more consistent communication of hazards to employees. Employers and employees need to understand the difference between WHMIS 1988 and 2015 to ensure their safety through online safety training so they can properly handle hazardous materials in the workplace. Employers must take an active role in developing a WHMIS program