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WorkSafeBC approves WHMIS 2015 changes

May 5, 2015 - WorkSafeBC has approved amendments to the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation (OHSR) relating to the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) 2015. Proposed amendments were subject to public consultation and a hearing in February 2015. 

These changes will harmonize with the Government of Canada’s implementation of the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS). The existing WHMIS requirements will align with the GHS elements and will be called WHMIS 2015. 

The approved amendments affect:

• Part 1, Definitions 

• Part 4, General Conditions 

• Part 5, Chemical Agents 

• Part 6, Substance Specific Requirements 

• Part 9, Confined Spaces 

• Part 12, Tools, Machinery and Equipment 

• Part 24, Diving, Fishing and Other Marine Operations 

Strikethrough versions and explanatory notes of the approved amendment may be accessed here.

The Province of British Columbia, along with other provinces and territories, has committed to working towards amending the WHMIS sections in the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation by June 1, 2015. These regulatory amendments will come into force on the date sections 5 and 6 of the Workers Compensation Amendment Act, 2015, Bill 9, come into force. It is anticipated that this will happen later this year, with roll-out at a later date. 

Questions about this regulation may be directed via email to WorkSafeBC at ssquery@worksafebc.com or call 1-888-621- 7233 toll-free or 604-276-3100 in the lower mainland. 

The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety has also provided free information and training resources as well as a free poster download (or paid print orders) of WHMIS pictograms.

May 5, 2015  By WorkSafeBC