Modified Regulation:

Hazardous Products Regulation (SOR/2015-17)

The new Hazardous Products Regulation (SOR/2015-17) was published in the Feb 11, 2015 Canada Gazette, Part II. The regulation outlined the new WHMIS requirements which incorporates the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals.

It repealed the Controlled Products Regulation (SOR/88-66) and the Ingredient Disclosure List.

Changes Include:

• New hazardous product classification criteria (two main hazard classes - physical and health)
• New labelling requirements and pictogramst
• Different format for safety data sheets

There is a three year transition period for all suppliers and employers to be fully compliant with WHMIS 2015. Employers must educate workers on both WHMIS 1988 and WHMIS 2015 during the transition period.

In addition, on Feb 11, 2015, relevant sections (i.e. 110) of the Economic Action Plan 2014 Act came into force which includes the legislative amendments to the Hazardous Products Act, which are necessary to fulfill the commitment made by the Prime Minister of Canada in 2011 to implement GHS in Canada.