WHMIS Guide Available for Island Workplaces
A new resource is available for employers and workers on changes to Workplace Hazardous Materials Information Systems (WHMIS).
Amendments to the federal Hazardous Products Act and Hazardous Products Regulations requirements for WHMIS came into effect in 2015. The amendments, referred to as WHMIS 2015, reflect the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS).
The amendments established new requirements for labels and safety data sheets (SDSs) under WHMIS. The federal legislation regulates suppliers (importers, manufacturers, distributors) while the Workers Compensation Board of PEI regulates the requirements of WHMIS in workplaces. The provincial changes to the WHMIS Regulations came into effect on July 29, 2017.
“Transition to the new requirements has been implemented in phases to provide employers and employees time to learn the new regulations and hazard symbols, and to allow suppliers and distributors time to start using the new labels,” said Stuart Affleck, Chair of the Workers Compensation Board of PEI.
The new WHMIS Guide is available at wcb.pe.ca. Additional information is also available at whmis.org or by calling the OH&S Division at 902-368-5697. Information sessions on the changes will also be held in multiple locations across Prince Edward Island. Please check the WCB calendar of events at wcb.pe.ca for session dates and locations.
WCB Communications
902-894-0362 or news@wcb.pe.ca
