The Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) is a Canadian system designed to provide information on the safe handling, use, storage, and disposal of hazardous products in the workplace. One of the critical components of WHMIS is the use of standardized symbols, also known as pictograms, to identify hazardous materials. These symbols play a vital role in communicating potential hazards to workers, employers, and other individuals who may come into contact with these substances.
WHMIS symbols are an essential tool for workplace safety, as they provide a quick and easy way to identify potential hazards associated with a particular substance. By understanding the meanings of these symbols, workers can take necessary precautions to minimize their exposure to hazardous materials, reducing the risk of injury or illness.
WHMIS Symbols and Their Meanings
WHMIS uses a set of standardized symbols, each with a specific meaning. These symbols are designed to be easily recognizable and understandable, even for individuals who may not be fluent in the same language. There are eight primary WHMIS symbols, each representing a different type of hazard.
1. Explosive Symbol
The explosive symbol, represented by an exploding bomb icon, indicates that a substance is capable of exploding or releasing a significant amount of energy.
| Symbol | Description |
|---|---|
 | Indicates a substance that is capable of exploding or releasing a significant amount of energy. |
2. Flammable Symbol
The flammable symbol, represented by a flame icon, indicates that a substance is flammable or combustible.
| Symbol | Description |
|---|---|
 | Indicates a substance that is flammable or combustible. |
3. Oxidizing Symbol
The oxidizing symbol, represented by an oxygen tank icon, indicates that a substance can cause or enhance the combustion of other materials.
| Symbol | Description |
|---|---|
 | Indicates a substance that can cause or enhance the combustion of other materials. |
4. Toxic Symbol
The toxic symbol, represented by a skull and crossbones icon, indicates that a substance is toxic or poisonous.
| Symbol | Description |
|---|---|
 | Indicates a substance that is toxic or poisonous. |
5. Corrosive Symbol
The corrosive symbol, represented by a corrosion icon, indicates that a substance can cause damage to skin, eyes, or other materials.
| Symbol | Description |
|---|---|
 | Indicates a substance that can cause damage to skin, eyes, or other materials. |
6. Respiratory Hazard Symbol
The respiratory hazard symbol, represented by a lung icon, indicates that a substance can cause respiratory problems or other health issues.
| Symbol | Description |
|---|---|
 | Indicates a substance that can cause respiratory problems or other health issues. |
7. Biohazard Symbol
The biohazard symbol, represented by a biohazard icon, indicates that a substance contains biological agents that can cause harm to humans or the environment.
| Symbol | Description |
|---|---|
 | Indicates a substance that contains biological agents that can cause harm to humans or the environment. |
8. Environmentally Hazardous Symbol
The environmentally hazardous symbol, represented by a fish icon, indicates that a substance can cause harm to the environment or aquatic life.
| Symbol | Description |
|---|---|
 | Indicates a substance that can cause harm to the environment or aquatic life. |
Key Points
- WHMIS symbols are standardized pictograms used to identify hazardous materials in the workplace.
- There are eight primary WHMIS symbols, each representing a different type of hazard.
- Understanding WHMIS symbols and their meanings is essential for workplace safety and minimizing exposure to hazardous materials.
- Employers and workers must be aware of the potential hazards associated with hazardous materials and take necessary precautions.
- WHMIS symbols are an essential tool for communicating potential hazards to workers, employers, and other individuals who may come into contact with hazardous substances.
Best Practices for Using WHMIS Symbols
To ensure effective communication of hazards and minimize exposure to hazardous materials, employers and workers should follow best practices for using WHMIS symbols.
1. Ensure Clear Visibility
WHMIS symbols should be displayed prominently and clearly visible on containers, labels, and safety data sheets.
2. Use Correct Symbol
The correct WHMIS symbol should be used for each hazardous material, as specified in the WHMIS guidelines.
3. Provide Training
Employers should provide workers with training on the meaning and significance of WHMIS symbols, as well as procedures for handling hazardous materials.
Conclusion
WHMIS symbols play a critical role in communicating potential hazards associated with hazardous materials in the workplace. By understanding the meanings of these symbols, employers and workers can take necessary precautions to minimize exposure and ensure a safe working environment.
What is the purpose of WHMIS symbols?
+WHMIS symbols are used to identify hazardous materials in the workplace and communicate potential hazards to workers, employers, and other individuals who may come into contact with these substances.
How many primary WHMIS symbols are there?
+There are eight primary WHMIS symbols, each representing a different type of hazard.
What is the meaning of the toxic symbol?
+The toxic symbol, represented by a skull and crossbones icon, indicates that a substance is toxic or poisonous.