WHMIS 2022: Updates to Federal WHMIS Regulations
What you need to know: Key Regulatory Updates for WHMIS 2022
In December 2022, Health Canada introduced regulatory updates to Workplace Hazardous Materials Information Sheet (WHMIS) regulations to better align it with the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS). After announcing these changes, suppliers and employers were provided three years to make these updates.
Effective December 31, 2025, WHMIS 2022 is now in effect in all federally regulated workplaces.
New Hazard Class and Categories
- Adoption of a new physical hazard class, Chemicals Under Pressure
- Chemicals that are in pressurized containers (aerosol paints, sprays, etc)
- New criteria for pressurized products
- Changes to hazard class names related to aerosols
- Non-flammable aerosols category introduced
- Flammable gases re-categorized into updated sub-groups
Expanded SDS Requirements
Safety Data Sheets must now include:
- Revised hazard classifications
- Updated ingredient disclosure rules
- Additional data elements under the amended regulations
- Hazard statement for combustible dust products
- Dates and information related to when SDS/labels are updated with significant new data
Label Requirements
Supplier labels must:
- Reflect updated hazard classes and categories
- Align with revised SDS information
- Be updated for all products currently in use
What you need to do: Steps for Compliance
New Hazard Class and Categories
- Update your WHMIS Inventory of Hazardous Substances for any affected products to reflect wording and hazard classification changes
- Any chemicals that are in pressurized containers (aerosol paints, sprays, etc.)
- Chemicals with “Reproductive Toxicity” hazards (e.g., enamel paints, paint thinners, HLP media, metallic pipe thread sealant, etc.)
- New information and modification of elements to be included on SDSs
- Review and revise documentation to reflect wording and hazard classification changes, including:
- Hazardous substance risk assessments
- Emergency Response Planning documentation
- Procedures
SDS Review: Part 2 Reproductive Toxicity hazards
- Confirm all SDSs are dated after Dec 14, 2022; replace if necessary
- Replace supplier labels on older inventory as required
Training and Communication
- Ensure workers receive instruction on the updated WHMIS hazards and document the training
- Review updates with your Joint Health & Safety Committee (JHSC)
Additional References
Need Help?
Contact your Alliance safety advisor for help with implementation, training materials, or inventory review.
