WHMIS - General Requirements

WHMIS stands for Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System. This system provides information about hazardous materials in the workplace, including their potential hazards, safe handling procedures, and emergency response measures. It is designed to ensure the safety of workers by providing them with the necessary information to handle hazardous materials safely.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is the correct answer because it refers to protective clothing, helmets, goggles, or other garments or equipment that workers wear to protect themselves from hazards in the workplace. PPE acts as a barrier between the worker and the hazardous chemicals, preventing direct contact and reducing the risk of exposure. It is an essential measure to ensure worker safety and minimize the potential for injuries or illnesses caused by chemical exposure.

Supplier Labels contain the Hazard Symbol to indicate that the product being supplied is hazardous and may pose a risk to health or safety. These labels are typically required by regulations and provide important information about the specific hazards associated with the product, such as flammability, toxicity, or corrosiveness. The Hazard Symbol serves as a visual warning to individuals handling or using the product, helping them to take appropriate precautions to prevent accidents or injuries.

MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheets) provide information about the hazards of a particular substance and the necessary precautions to take when handling it. These sheets need to be regularly updated to ensure that the information remains accurate and up-to-date. The correct answer, "Every 3 years," suggests that MSDS expire every three years and need to be renewed or updated to reflect any changes in the substance's hazards or safety precautions. This ensures that individuals working with the substance have access to the most current and relevant information for their safety.

Blood, or contaminated sharps, are examples of Class D, Division 3 substances. These substances are infectious materials that can cause serious diseases in humans, such as HIV or Hepatitis B. They require special handling and disposal procedures to prevent the spread of infections.

Employees must review and refresh their WHMIS (Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System) training annually. This ensures that they stay up to date with any changes or new information regarding hazardous materials in the workplace. Regular training refreshers help employees maintain their knowledge and understanding of WHMIS, enabling them to safely handle and work with hazardous materials.

The four routes of entry that hazardous materials may enter the body are absorption, inhalation, injection, and ingestion. Absorption refers to the entry of hazardous materials through the skin or mucous membranes. Inhalation occurs when hazardous materials are breathed in through the respiratory system. Injection refers to the direct introduction of hazardous materials into the bloodstream through a puncture or needle. Ingestion happens when hazardous materials are swallowed and enter the body through the digestive system. These routes of entry highlight the various ways in which hazardous materials can enter and potentially harm the body.

The three main elements of a functioning WHMIS system are education, labels, and Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS). Education is important as it ensures that employees are aware of the hazards associated with chemicals and how to handle them safely. Labels provide crucial information about the identity and hazards of the chemicals, allowing employees to take necessary precautions. MSDS contain detailed information about the properties, hazards, and safe handling procedures of the chemicals, serving as a valuable resource for employees. Together, these elements help to create a safe working environment and prevent accidents or injuries caused by hazardous substances.

The three pieces of information that workplace labels contain are the name of the product, precautionary instructions, and the location of the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS). The name of the product helps identify what the label is referring to, the precautionary instructions provide guidance on how to safely handle and use the product, and the location of the MSDS is important for accessing detailed information about the product's hazards and safety precautions.

Flammable and combustible materials are classified as Class B hazards. Class B hazards include substances that can easily catch fire or explode when exposed to heat, sparks, or flames. These materials have a flashpoint below 100 degrees Fahrenheit and can pose a significant fire risk. Examples of Class B materials include gasoline, oil, alcohol, and certain chemicals.