Free Guide to WHMIS Symbols and Labeling
Under the 1988 WHMIS (Workplace Hazardous Material Information System) laws Canadian suppliers who sell or import a "controlled product", as defined by the WHMIS legislation, must label the product or container using specified symbols and information. The purpose of the label is to clearly identify the product and make people aware there may be hazards associated with using the product. The labels also describe the precautions to take when using the product. In addition, WHMIS labels state that more detailed information is available in the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS).
In addition to suppliers, employers and sometimes employees are responsible for ensuring products in the workplace are properly labeled. This includes applying WHMIS labels to controlled products, labeling decanted products, labeling laboratory chemicals or piping, and labeling bulk containers where a controlled product is being held or is flowing.
A key component of a WHMIS label are the WHMIS hazard symbols. These are eight symbols that identify and quickly communicate the hazard classification of the material. One of the eight symbols must be included on every WHMIS label. The quick eference guide from Graphic Products shows the eight WHMIS Symbols and provides a detailed explanation of each, including a description of the material represented by each symbol, and giving examples of each type of material. This guide also provides an overview of the requirements for WHMIS labels.
The Quick Reference Guide to WHMIS Symbols and Labeling is available free. It may be ordered online at: http://www.graphicproducts.com/
Use the WHMIS Symbols Guide as a desk reference or hang it on the wall in a noticeable spot. Your employees, vendors, contractors and visitors will be able to quickly and easily understand WHMIS Symbols and labels.
For more information about Graphic Products' labeling, sign making and safety supplies, visit their web site at: http://www.graphicproducts.com or their safe workplace web site at: http://www.safe-
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