Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System

The Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) was revised in 2018. Revisions included the following:

  • New classes of hazards.
  • All new pictograms/symbols.
  • Revised labeling requirements.
  • Changes to contents of "safety data sheets" (SDS) (versus material safety data sheets [MSDS]).

How This Affects You

If you work with hazardous products at the university:

For questions about the program, contact HSE open in a new tab.

Symbols + Hazard Categories

WHMIS has a set of hazard categories and pictograms and symbols. Refer to the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) WHMIS 2015 - Pictograms fact sheet open in a new tab to learn more.

WHMIS Symbols

Labeling Requirements

WHMIS labeling

Safety Data Sheets

Safety data sheets (SDSs) replace material safety data sheets (MSDSs) and include more information. Refer to the SDS information document open in a new tab for details.

Have Questions? Ask HSE open in a new tab