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 differences 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. If you're new to the system, you can also explore a detailed overview of what WHMIS is in Canada.

Employers need to understand these changes and ensure that they provide the necessary training and information to ensure workplace safety.

What Is a Safety Data Sheet (SDS)? Complete 16-Section Breakdown

A Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is a standardized document required under WHMIS 2015, aligned with the Globally Harmonized System (GHS). It replaces the older Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) used in WHMIS 1988.

Under WHMIS 2015, every hazardous product must have an SDS formatted into 16 standardized sections. This ensures consistent hazard communication across Canada and internationally.

The 16 Mandatory Sections of an SDS

1. Identification – Product name, recommended use, supplier contact details, emergency phone number.

2. Hazard Identification – Hazard classification, signal word (Danger/Warning), pictograms, hazard statements. For a breakdown of symbols, see this WHMIS pictograms guide.

3. Composition/Information on Ingredients – Chemical ingredients and concentrations.

4. First-Aid Measures – Immediate treatment instructions for exposure.

5. Fire-Fighting Measures – Suitable extinguishing media and specific hazards.

6. Accidental Release Measures – Spill response and cleanup procedures.

7. Handling and Storage – Safe storage conditions and precautions.

8. Exposure Controls/Personal Protection – PPE requirements and exposure limits. Learn more about PPE for hazardous chemicals.

9. Physical and Chemical Properties – Flash point, boiling point, appearance, etc.

10. Stability and Reactivity – Chemical stability and incompatible materials.

11. Toxicological Information – Routes of exposure and health effects.

12. Ecological Information – Environmental impact (non-mandatory under WHMIS but required in GHS format).

13. Disposal Considerations – Safe disposal methods.

14. Transport Information – Shipping classification. You can review common mistakes in the transport of dangerous goods.

15. Regulatory Information – Applicable regulations.

16. Other Information – Date of preparation or last revision.

This standardized structure improves clarity, reduces confusion, and enhances workplace safety compliance. It also helps prevent documentation issues like those outlined in common Safety Data Sheet errors.

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. To better understand employer obligations, read who is responsible for WHMIS training.

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:

1. WHMIS 2015 now aligns with the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS).
2. New hazard classes were introduced, such as aspirating hazards and specific target organ toxicity.
3. The previous WHMIS system had symbols based on the shapes of the symbols, but the new system has more standardized and easily recognized pictograms.
4. The old Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) was replaced with the latest Safety Data Sheet (SDS), which has a 16-section format.
5. Hazard classification criteria have been updated to be more specific and scientifically based.
6. Employers must now provide general and site-specific WHMIS training to employees. For provincial guidance, see WHMIS training requirements in Ontario.
7. The new system strongly focuses on WHMIS risk assessment and prevention, emphasizing preventive measures.
8. The use of signal words such as "Danger" and "Warning" has been standardized to communicate the level of hazard associated with the product.

WHMIS 2015 Hazard Classification: Physical, Health & Environmental Hazards

WHMIS 2015 significantly expanded hazard classifications compared to WHMIS 1988. Instead of 6 broad hazard classes, WHMIS 2015 includes 33 hazard classes grouped into three major categories:

1. Physical Hazards

1. Flammable gases, liquids, solids

2. Oxidizing materials

3. Self-reactive substances

4. Compressed gases

5. Corrosive to metals

6. Explosives

These hazards relate to physical and chemical reactions. Improper handling of flammable substances can lead to serious incidents, as explained in how to handle flammable liquids in the workplace.

2. Health Hazards

1. Acute toxicity

2. Skin corrosion/irritation

3. Serious eye damage

4. Carcinogenicity

5. Reproductive toxicity

6. Specific target organ toxicity

7. Aspiration hazard

These classifications are more scientifically precise than WHMIS 1988.

3. Environmental Hazards

1. Aquatic toxicity

Although environmental hazards are not enforced under federal WHMIS legislation, they appear on labels and SDS under GHS alignment. This expanded classification system ensures more accurate risk assessment and prevention.

WHMIS Label Requirements – Supplier vs. Workplace Labels

Under WHMIS 2015, labels must clearly communicate hazards using standardized elements.

Supplier Labels Must Include:

1. Product identifier

2. Initial supplier identifier

3. Hazard pictograms (red diamond symbols)

4. Signal word (Danger or Warning)

5. Hazard statements

6. Precautionary statements

7. Supplemental information (if applicable)

Workplace Labels Must Include:

1. Product name

2. Safe handling precautions

3. Reference to SDS

The standardized pictograms replaced the older circular WHMIS symbols, improving global consistency and recognition.

WHMIS 1988 vs. WHMIS 2015: Comparison Table

Here is a comparison table highlighting the key differences between WHMIS 1988 and WHMIS 2015:

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 Symbols:

WHMIS 2015 Symbols:

Roles and Responsibilities Under WHMIS 2015

WHMIS compliance is a shared responsibility between suppliers, employers, and workers.

Suppliers Must:

1. Classify hazardous products

2. Provide compliant labels

3. Prepare and update SDS

4. Ensure bilingual (English/French) documentation

Employers Must:

1. Provide WHMIS training (general + site-specific)

2. Ensure SDS are accessible

3. Maintain proper workplace labeling

4. Implement hazard control measures

Workers Must:

1. Participate in WHMIS training

2. Follow safe handling procedures

3. Use required PPE

4. Report hazards or damaged labels

Clear accountability strengthens workplace safety systems.

How to Use an SDS in the Workplace

An SDS is not just a compliance document; it is a practical safety tool.

Workers should use an SDS to:

1. Identify hazards before handling a product

2. Determine appropriate PPE

3. Understand first-aid procedures

4. Review safe storage conditions

5. Prepare for emergency spill response

Supervisors should incorporate SDS review into job safety analysis and hazard assessments.

WHMIS Compliance Requirements & Regulatory Framework

WHMIS 2015 is enforced under:

1. The Hazardous Products Act (HPA)

2. The Hazardous Products Regulations (HPR)

3. Provincial and Territorial Occupational Health & Safety Laws

As of December 1, 2018, full compliance with WHMIS 2015 became mandatory across Canada.

SDS must be updated whenever significant new hazard information becomes available. There is no fixed 3-year update requirement (as existed under WHMIS 1988), but suppliers must ensure information remains current.

Failure to comply can result in regulatory penalties and workplace liability.

Common WHMIS Compliance Mistakes

To avoid penalties and workplace hazards, watch out for:

1. Using outdated MSDS instead of SDS

2. Missing workplace labels on decanted products

3. Employees are not receiving site-specific training

4. Not updating SDS when hazard information changes

5. Improper storage of incompatible chemicals

Proactive audits and regular WHMIS refresher training help prevent compliance failures.

WHMIS vs OSHA Hazard Communication (International Comparison)

WHMIS 2015 aligns closely with the U.S. OSHA Hazard Communication Standard (HazCom 2012), as both follow GHS.

However:

1. WHMIS requires bilingual documentation.

2. Canadian supplier identifiers differ from U.S. labeling requirements.

3. Enforcement falls under federal and provincial authorities in Canada.

This harmonization simplifies trade and cross-border chemical distribution.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is WHMIS 2015 mandatory in Canada?

Yes. Since December 2018, all workplaces must comply with WHMIS 2015.

How often must SDS be updated?

When new hazard information becomes available.

Are SDS required to be bilingual?

Yes, in Canada, SDS must be available in both English and French.

What is the difference between MSDS and SDS?

MSDS (WHMIS 1988) had 9 sections and less standardization. SDS (WHMIS 2015) has 16 standardized sections aligned with GHS.

Who needs WHMIS training?

Any worker exposed or potentially exposed to hazardous products.

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 that is tailored to their specific workplace. This includes identifying the hazardous materials used in their work and ensuring that their workers understand the hazards associated with them.