WHMIS, or the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System, is a critical framework for ensuring the safe handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous materials in Canadian workplaces. It's designed to protect workers from potential health risks posed by chemicals and other dangerous substances they may encounter. In 2015, Canada adopted the Global Harmonization System (GHS), which aligned WHMIS with international standards to streamline and improve hazard communication. While WHMIS and GHS are often used interchangeably, the terms represent an evolution in how hazardous materials are classified and communicated globally.
What is WHMIS/GHS?
WHMIS is a system that provides workers with important information about hazardous materials in the workplace, through labels, Safety Data Sheets (SDS), and worker education. The GHS is a global system that standardizes the classification and labeling of chemicals to ensure safety at the international level.
Key elements of WHMIS include:
Labels: Every hazardous material must have a label that clearly indicates the risks associated with that substance. These labels include symbols, signal words, and precautionary statements to help workers understand the risks quickly.
Safety Data Sheets (SDS): SDS provide detailed information about the material, including its hazards, safe handling instructions, and emergency response procedures. Workers can refer to SDS to find crucial details for managing a hazardous material safely.
Worker Education and Training: To be effective, WHMIS requires that workers receive proper training to identify hazardous materials, understand the labels and SDS, and know how to respond in emergencies.
Impact on Workplace Safety
WHMIS/GHS has a profound impact on workplace safety. By clearly identifying and communicating the hazards of materials, workers can make informed decisions about how to protect themselves. Safety measures such as wearing personal protective equipment (PPE), knowing evacuation procedures, and having spill containment materials on hand are more effectively implemented when workers understand the specific risks involved.
In addition to reducing accidents, WHMIS promotes a culture of safety by ensuring all workers, regardless of their level of experience, have access to the same clear, standardized information. This is particularly crucial in workplaces where hazardous chemicals are handled daily, such as manufacturing plants, laboratories, construction sites, and healthcare facilities.
Impact on First Aid
In the event of an emergency involving a hazardous material, having the right information at hand is crucial for providing prompt and effective First Aid. WHMIS/GHS supports First Aid by making it easier for workers to identify the proper treatment for exposure to hazardous substances. For example:
Chemical Burns: If a worker is exposed to a corrosive material, the SDS will provide instructions on how to treat chemical burns, such as flushing the area with water for a specific duration.
Inhalation of Toxic Fumes: If a worker inhales toxic fumes, the label and SDS will offer guidance on what immediate actions to take, such as moving the person to fresh air and calling emergency medical services if needed.
Spills or Leaks: In case of a hazardous spill, knowing the correct emergency procedures (including containment, cleanup, and First Aid) is essential to prevent further exposure and injury.
In a First Aid situation, every second counts. Having clear and accessible information from WHMIS labels and SDS means that First Aid responders can act more quickly and accurately, potentially saving lives and minimizing injuries.
Conclusion
In summary, WHMIS/GHS plays a vital role in workplace safety by providing clear, consistent communication about hazardous materials. It empowers workers with the knowledge they need to handle chemicals safely and reduces the risk of workplace accidents. In emergency situations, WHMIS information can be the key to providing effective First Aid, ensuring that workers are treated quickly and appropriately. As such, both employers and employees must understand and adhere to WHMIS/GHS standards to maintain a safe working environment and respond to emergencies with confidence.
RESOURCES:
Author - Saving Grace Medical Academy Ltd
Jason T
Retired EMT - Heart & Stroke Foundation Senior Instructor