The Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) is the Canadian equivalent of OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard (HCS). Like the HazCom Standard, WHMIS has been formally aligned with the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS).

The new WHMIS regulations were updated to implement GHS in 2015, officially adopting the universal standard for chemical labels, the use of safety data sheets, hazard identification, and employee training. While WHMIS does not apply manufacturers and workplaces in the United States, the harmonization with GHS improves safety when hazardous chemicals are shipped internationally, since workers in the United States are required to be trained on understanding the GHS pictograms and how to read a GHS label.

What part of GHS do you think is most important for employees? Share your thoughts below!