Safe Handling of Workplace Hazardous Materials

What's the Risk?

 Blaine, a new food services worker at hospital, was using a sanitizing cleanser to disinfect kitchen surfaces after lunch service. Blaine’s orientation to the department did not include WHMIS or a review of any chemical risks or safety precautions required.  While applying the sanitizer to the counters, Blaine was splashed in the eye, causing immediate irritation and a burning sensation. 

Unfortunately, in recent months some healthcare workers in Manitoba have been injured on the job while working with hazardous materials. These types of incidents have the potential to cause life altering injuries, which no worker in any industry should experience.  

What's the Hazard? 

WHMIS (Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System) 2015 is Canada's national system for communicating workplace hazardous product risks, categorized into:

• Physical hazards: Harm due to flammability, reactivity, or corrosiveness.

• Health hazards: Acute or chronic health issues affecting the skin, lungs, nervous system, etc.

Safety and Health Protection 

Before handling hazardous products, be familiar with their risks. Employers must provide WHMIS training and ensure safety data sheets (SDS) are available. Part 35.3(2) of the Manitoba Workplace Safety and Health Regulation requires that for every hazardous product that a worker may be exposed to, the employer must ensure the worker receives training regarding:

• The contents of SDS, the supplier label, and the significance of this information.

• Hazard information respecting the hazardous product.

• Procedures for safely using, storing, handling and disposing of the hazardous product.

• Procedures to be followed in the event of an emergency involving the hazardous product.

Part 35.4(b) of the Manitoba Workplace Safety and Health Regulation outlines that education and training for WHMIS, must be reviewed and revised at least annually or more frequently if required by a change in workplace conditions or hazard information. 

Safety Data Sheets (SDS) 

A SDS outlines product risks and safety precautions. It includes 16 sections, such as hazard classification, first aid, handling, storage, exposure controls, protective equipment, and more.

Using an SDS 

Review the SDS before using hazardous products to ensure safety. Key points to know:

• Product name

• Associated hazards

• Safe handling and storage, including protective equipment

• Emergency procedures: first aid measures and spill response

Workplace Labels 

When a hazardous product is decanted from its original container into another container, or when a supplier label becomes illegible, a workplace label must be utilized.  A workplace label must include:

• Product name (matching the SDS)

• Safe handling precautions

• A reference to the SDS

* Workplace labels may also include pictograms or other supplier information.

Promoting Safety Awareness 

When working with hazardous products in the workplace, the importance of asking questions to be informed cannot be overstated. Gaining a clear understanding of the risks associated with these substances and the proper precautions to take will prevent incidents and potential long-term health effects. By asking questions and seeking clarification, workers can ensure they are using chemicals safely, following correct procedures, and using the appropriate protective equipment. This proactive approach promotes safety awareness, minimizes incidents, and supports the ongoing enhancement of safety practices, leading to a workplace where health and safety are prioritized by all.

References:

• CCOHS: WHMIS - Safety Data Sheet (SDS)

• Manitoba Workplace Safety Act and Regulations