WHMIS stands for the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System, Canada’s national communication standard for hazardous workplace chemicals. It is designed to ensure that workers receive consistent, clear information about the hazards of chemicals they may be exposed to on the job and safe handling procedures. WHMIS uses standardized elements like pictograms, labels, and Safety Data Sheets (SDSs) to help workers understand: The type of hazard (e.g., toxic, flammable, corrosive) How to safely use and store the material What to do in case of an emergency (spill, exposure, fire) WHMIS applies to almost every industry in Canada where hazardous products are used—whether it’s in construction, manufacturing, warehousing, or health care. The most recent update to WHMIS took place in December 2022/January 2023 to align it with a more recent revision of the GHS.

What is WHMIS?

WHMIS stands for the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System, Canada’s national communication standard for hazardous workplace chemicals.

It is designed to ensure that workers receive consistent, clear information about the hazards of chemicals they may be exposed to on the job and safe handling procedures.

WHMIS uses standardized elements like pictograms, labels, and Safety Data Sheets (SDSs) to help workers understand:

The type of hazard (e.g., toxic, flammable, corrosive)
How to safely use and store the material
What to do in case of an emergency (spill, exposure, fire)

WHMIS applies to almost every industry in Canada where hazardous products are used—whether it’s in construction, manufacturing, warehousing, or health care.

The most recent update to WHMIS took place in December 2022/January 2023 to align it with a more recent revision of the GHS.