Hamilton, ON (June 9, 2010) – The Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) is working towards adopting the new Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS). The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) has created a new guide to introduce Canadians to GHS and to help prepare workplaces for potential changes.

The goal of GHS is to have the same set of rules for classifying hazards and the same format and content for labels and safety data sheets (SDS) adopted and used around the world. WHMIS After GHS: Preparing for Change will help guide organizations through the anticipated changes, assist in the understanding of the new requirements and facilitate a successful transition to “WHMIS After GHS”.

While exact details of the revised legislation will not be known when it is published in the Canada Gazette II, sufficient information is known to encourage workplaces to begin preparing for changes. This overview covers the basics of classification, safety data sheets, symbols and pictograms, labels, hazard statements and precautionary statements.

CCOHS publications are unique in that they are developed by experts in the field and reviewed by representatives from labour, employers and government to ensure the content and approach are unbiased and credible.

For more information about WHMIS After GHS: Preparing for Change, please visit www.ccohs.ca/products/publications/WHMISGHS.html.