Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System
WHMIS (Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System) is a detailed system of labelling and information designed to inform workers who deal with hazardous goods. It is enforced by a number of governmental agencies in different localities.
There are two basic types of label from WHMIS; the supplier label and the workplace label. Both have symbols on them, but the supplier label is far more detailed.
All WHMIS labels have symbols on them; a list follows:
- A flame - The substance is flammable and should be kept away from sparks or flame. It might also be explosive.
- A flaming O - The substance is an oxidant.
- Drops from a vial corroding a hand and a metal bar - The substance is corrosive. Care should be kept to keep it away from skin and to prevent spillage.
- A skull and crossbones - The substance is poisonous and should not be taken internally.
- A T-like symbol with a dot below - The substance has "other toxic effects"
- An R which is being destroyed with a test tube in it - The substance is dangerously reactive with other substance.
- A tube-like canister - A compressed gas is contained
- A circle with three claw-like things coming out of it - Biohazard
WHMIS labels contain reference to the MSDS sheet associated with the product.
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