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When it comes to maintaining a safe food processing environment, understanding and implementing the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) is critical. This guide will walk you through the essential steps for successfully implementing WHMIS, ensuring your team is well-prepared and that your workplace complies with Canadian safety standards.
Before we explore its implementation in more detail, let’s start with an overview of what WHMIS actually is.
What is WHMIS?
WHMIS was introduced in 1988 to establish a consistent approach for communicating risks associated with hazardous materials, including chemicals, in Canadian workplaces. The main components of WHMIS are hazard identification and product classification, labelling, Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and worker education and training.
In 2015, WHMIS was updated to align with the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS). Three key changes were made which aided in increasing international consistency for hazardous material classification and labelling practices:
- Classification Criteria: Adopted internationally recognized criteria for classifying hazardous chemicals.
- Labelling Requirements: Aligned with GHS labelling standards, including standardized pictograms (symbols) and signal words.
- Safety Data Sheets (SDSs): Standardized the format for SDSs to enhance accessibility and understanding.
Who needs WHMIS Certification?
WHMIS training is legally mandated for all employees who are exposed to, or may potentially encounter, hazardous materials or controlled products in the workplace. This includes individuals from a wide range of industries, such as Hospitality, Manufacturing and Food Processing, among others.
Find out if you need a WHMIS Certificate here.
Why is a WHMIS Certificate required in Canada?
To guarantee the wellbeing of both staff and customers, federal and provincial legislation mandates the implementation of WHMIS. The system applies to various industries and workplaces, including food processing facilities, where chemicals and hazardous materials are often used.
WHMIS training and certification ensures that food processing staff are well-versed in the standardized system for handling hazardous materials. This is not only a legal requirement but also a vital component of workplace safety.
Individuals who obtain a WHMIS Certificate are demonstrating that they have the knowledge and skills necessary to handle hazardous materials safely, understand the hazards associated with these materials and take appropriate measures to protect themselves and others.
To achieve certification, staff must develop a thorough understanding of WHMIS legislation and procedures to meet all legal requirements.
How is WHMIS legislation enforced in Canada?
Federal and provincial laws govern the enforcement of WHMIS regulations, with specific agencies responsible for monitoring compliance. The Labour Branch of Human Resources Development Canada enforces WHMIS legislation in federal workplaces, whereas provincial occupational health and safety agencies handle enforcement when it comes to non-federal workplaces.
What are the legal consequences for businesses that fail to comply with WHMIS legislation?
Non-compliance with WHMIS legislation can lead to serious penalties, including fines and business closures. Fine amounts will vary depending on the severity of the violation and the type of regulation found to be in breach.
- Federal regulations: Fines of up to $1 million (CAD) and imprisonment for up to two years.
- Provincial regulations: Comparable penalties and prison terms, with business suspensions and closures also a possibility.
If an accident or injury occurs due to a WHMIS violation committed by your establishment, you can also expect to face additional legal action in the form of a lawsuit.
How can food processing businesses implement WHMIS effectively?
There are six steps that can be followed to successfully implement WHMIS in a food processing environment, which are:
Each of these steps has been described below in more detail to provide you with guidance on how to successfully implement WHMIS within a food production facility.
Step 1: Conducting an inventory audit
The first step in implementing WHMIS is to conduct a thorough inventory audit of all hazardous materials in your food processing environment. This helps to gain an understanding of the types and quantities of hazardous materials present in the workplace This involves:
- Identifying all hazardous products used, stored or handled within the facility.
- Reviewing Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for each product to ensure they are up-to-date and accessible.
- Creating an inventory list that includes the product name, classification and the remaining quantity of the product.
An inventory audit also ensures that all necessary documentation, such as SDS, is available and accessible to workers. This step is crucial for assessing the potential risks and determining the appropriate control measures.
Step 2: Labelling
Labels are the first line of communication regarding the hazards of a product. They provide essential information at a glance, helping workers understand the risks and take necessary precautions. WHMIS labels include standardized symbols (pictograms) that indicate the type of hazard, such as flammability, toxicity or corrosiveness.
Each container of hazardous materials must be labelled according to WHMIS guidelines which involves the use of written labels or symbol-based labels, such as pictograms. This includes:
- Applying appropriate labels that clearly display the product identifier, hazard pictograms, signal words, hazard statements, precautionary statements and supplier identification.
- Ensuring that labels are legible and securely attached to the containers.
- Using workplace labels for products that aren't kept in their original packaging, such as chemicals that have been transferred into smaller containers.
Step 3: Education and training
Education and training are key to effective WHMIS implementation. Enrolling your team in an online WHMIS training program ensures they understand how to identify potential hazards and protect themselves accordingly. The Canadian Institute of Food Safety (CIFS) provides a comprehensive WHMIS certification course curriculum that includes the following essential topics:
- The different types of hazardous materials and associated control measures.
- The meaning of WHMIS labels and pictograms.
- How to read and interpret Safety Data Sheets (SDS).
- Emergency procedures in case of a spill or exposure.
WHMIS training is critical for equipping food processing staff with the knowledge and skills required to handle hazardous materials safely. Training should be conducted as soon as an employee is hired, and regularly thereafter, to ensure that workers remain up-to-date with the latest safety information and practices.
Step 4: Implementing control measures
Control measures are actions taken to eliminate or reduce the risks associated with hazardous materials. To minimize the risks associated with hazardous materials, food processing plants should implement control measures such as:
- Engineering controls: Modifications made to the work environment to reduce exposure, for example installing a ventilation system.
- Administrative controls: Changes in work procedures to improve safety, such as safe work procedures and regular training updates.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Provides a final layer of protection, such as gloves by shielding workers from direct contact with hazardous materials.
Step 5: Maintaining documentation
Proper documentation helps ensure that all necessary information is available for workers and regulatory authorities. It also provides a record of compliance with WHMIS requirements, which can be important in case of an inspection or incident.
Maintaining accurate and up-to-date documentation can ensure WHMIS compliance by:
- Keeping an up-to-date inventory of hazardous materials.
- Ensuring all SDS are current and readily accessible.
- Documenting all training activities and keeping records of employee certifications.
Step 6: Regular reviews and updates
Regular reviews and updates help ensure that WHMIS procedures remain effective and compliant with current regulations. These activities also provide an opportunity to identify and address any gaps or weaknesses in the program.
The following actions should be implemented as part of a company’s WHMIS review process:
- Conducting periodic audits to ensure compliance.
- Updating training plan to reflect any changes in regulations or procedures.
- Reviewing and revising safety procedures as necessary.
Become WHMIS certified with CIFS
Incorporating WHMIS best practices into your food processing operation is not only a regulatory requirement, but also a commitment to workplace safety. By following the six steps outlined above and ensuring your team is trained and certified, you can create a safer, more efficient workplace.
Don’t wait for WHMIS violations to occur, enroll with CIFS today and make compliance more convenient with our nationally recognized WHMIS Certification Course.
