WHMIS Pictograms & New Hazard Classes

As of December 15, 2025, the transition period for Canada’s amended Hazardous Products Regulations (HPR) has officially ended. Operating under the old “WHMIS 2015” standards is no longer compliant. To align with the latest GHS standards, workplaces must now adhere to updated requirements for labels, pictograms, and safety data sheets.

Enhanced Labeling

All hazardous products must now feature updated labels. Key changes include:

  • Specific Subcategories: Labels must reflect refined classifications, such as Flammable Gas – Category 1A or 1B.
  • Full Disclosure: Suppliers must disclose all hazardous ingredients above certain levels, even if they don’t change the product’s overall classification.

Pictograms & New Hazard Classes

While most icons remain the same, their usage has expanded:

  • Chemicals Under Pressure: This new hazard class uses the Gas Cylinder or Flame pictograms to show specific risks.
  • Aerosols: The “Flammable Aerosols” class is now simply “Aerosols.” It now includes a new Category 3 for non-flammable aerosols, which generally do not require a pictogram.

Revised Standards for Safety Data Sheets

Safety Data Sheets (often referred to as SDS) now require more technical precision:

  • Section 9 Data: Safety Data Sheets must now include specific data like particle size and liquid thickness (kinematic viscosity).
  • 90-Day Updates: Suppliers must update an Safety Data Sheets within 90 days of learning new hazard information. Employers must ensure their digital or physical binders have the latest versions.

Immediate WHMIS Compliance Steps

Compliance is no longer a future goal. The transition period for Canada’s amended Hazardous Products Regulations has passed.

To meet current legal requirements, employers must immediately:

  1. Audit Your Inventory: Ensure every hazardous product has a post-amendment Safety Data Sheet and label.
  2. Update Workplace Labels: Any decanted products or secondary containers must be relabeled to match the new classifications.
  3. Refresher Training: Workers must be trained to recognize new hazard classes and understand the updated Safety Data Sheet format.

The new and updated SafetyVantage WHMIS Course is now available. Take it now to stay compliant, understand the latest requirements, and keep your workplace safe.