The Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) is a comprehensive system that provides information on hazardous materials in the workplace. It is designed to ensure that workers have the information they need to work safely with hazardous materials.

In 2015, Canada aligned its WHMIS system with the United Nations’ Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS), which is a standardized system for classifying and labelling hazardous chemicals. This alignment ensures that Canadian workers have access to consistent and up-to-date information on hazardous materials.

WHMIS GHS provides information in several ways:

1. Hazard Classification: WHMIS GHS provides a standardized system for classifying hazards based on their physical, health, and environmental hazards. This system uses pictograms and signal words to provide a quick visual reference for the hazards associated with a particular chemical. The classification system provides information on the hazards associated with the material, including the type and degree of hazard.
2. Safety Data Sheets (SDS): An SDS is a detailed document that provides information on the properties of a hazardous material, including its physical and chemical properties, potential health hazards, safe handling, storage, and disposal procedures. WHMIS GHS requires that SDSs be provided for all hazardous materials used in the workplace, and that they be available to workers who may be exposed to the material.
3. Labels: WHMIS GHS requires that all hazardous materials be labelled with specific information, including the product name, supplier identification, hazard pictograms, signal words, and precautionary statements. The labels provide workers with a quick reference to the hazards associated with the material and the necessary precautions to take.
4. Education and Training: WHMIS GHS requires that employers provide education and training to workers on the hazards associated with the materials they use, as well as safe handling, storage, and disposal procedures. This training ensures that workers are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to work safely with hazardous materials.

WHMIS GHS provides comprehensive information on hazardous materials in the workplace. This system ensures that workers have access to consistent and up-to-date information on the hazards associated with the materials they use, and the necessary precautions to take to work safely. The combination of hazard classification, safety data sheets, labels, and education and training ensures that workers are informed and prepared to work safely with hazardous materials.