1 Overview of the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) Catherine Drum, BASc...

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Overview of the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS)

Catherine Drum, BASc (OHS), CRSPCatherine Drum, BASc (OHS), CRSP

Environmental Health & Safety OfficerEnvironmental Health & Safety Officer

Ryerson University -- Wisdom Applied Ryerson University -- Wisdom Applied

20102010

www.ryerson.ca/cehsm

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Topics

OverviewOverview Responsibilities under WHMIS Responsibilities under WHMIS (slide 11)

WHMIS Classes & Symbols WHMIS Classes & Symbols (slide 16)

Supplier Label Supplier Label (slide 33)

Workplace Label Workplace Label (slide 39)

Material Safety Data Sheets Material Safety Data Sheets (slide 48)

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Topics continued…

WHMIS and the Transportation of Dangerous WHMIS and the Transportation of Dangerous Goods (TDG) – A Comparison Goods (TDG) – A Comparison (slide 68)

Chemical Hazards Chemical Hazards (slide 77)

Health Effects of Toxic Substances Health Effects of Toxic Substances (slide 82) Protective Measures Protective Measures (slide 106)

WHMIS in Laboratories WHMIS in Laboratories (slide 134) WHMIS at Ryerson WHMIS at Ryerson (slide 144)

Summary Summary (slide 151)

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Overview

What is WHMIS?What is WHMIS?

Purpose of WHMISPurpose of WHMIS

What’s NOT Covered? What’s NOT Covered?

Main Parts of WHMISMain Parts of WHMIS

Introduction -- Workplace Hazards

What is an occupational health hazard?What is an occupational health hazard? What is a risk and how is it different from What is a risk and how is it different from

hazard?hazard? How should workplace health and safety How should workplace health and safety

hazards be dealt with?hazards be dealt with? Are there Ontario laws requiring the control Are there Ontario laws requiring the control

of exposure to specific workplace hazards? of exposure to specific workplace hazards?

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Introduction

What is WHMIS?What is WHMIS? Workplace Hazardous Materials Information Workplace Hazardous Materials Information

SystemSystem Canada-wide legislationCanada-wide legislation Information system designed to protect Information system designed to protect

Canadian workers from hazardous materials Canadian workers from hazardous materials used in the workplaceused in the workplace

Right to know about workplace hazardsRight to know about workplace hazards

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Introduction

Purpose of WHMIS?Purpose of WHMIS? To provide information about hazardous To provide information about hazardous

materials used in the workplacematerials used in the workplace To facilitate the process of hazard identification To facilitate the process of hazard identification

in the workplacein the workplace To ensure consistency of hazard information in To ensure consistency of hazard information in

all Canadian workplacesall Canadian workplaces

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Introduction

What’s NOT covered by WHMIS?What’s NOT covered by WHMIS? Consumer restricted products (those products

sold to people in regular stores that are already labeled following the rules of the Hazardous Products Act)

Explosives (as defined by the Explosives Act) Cosmetics, drugs, food or devices (as defined

by the Food and Drug Act)

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Introduction

Pest control products (pesticides, herbicides, insecticides, etc) (as defined by the Pest Control Products Act)

Radioactive materials (as defined by the Atomic Energy Control Act)

Wood and products made of wood A manufactured article Tobacco or products made of tobacco Hazardous wastes

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Introduction

What are the Main Parts of WHMIS?What are the Main Parts of WHMIS? LabelsLabels Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS)Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) Worker Training & EducationWorker Training & Education

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ResponsibilitiesUnder WHMIS

SupplierSupplier

EmployerEmployer

EmployeeEmployee

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Responsibilities under WHMIS

Supplier DutiesSupplier Duties A supplier of a chemical product must compare A supplier of a chemical product must compare

the product's physical, chemical and toxic the product's physical, chemical and toxic properties with a detailed set of WHMIS properties with a detailed set of WHMIS criteriacriteria

If the product meets one or more of the criteria, If the product meets one or more of the criteria, the product becomes subject to WHMIS the product becomes subject to WHMIS requirementsrequirements

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Classify productsClassify products Label products with a WHMIS labelLabel products with a WHMIS label Prepare and provide customers with MSDS'sPrepare and provide customers with MSDS's Update MSDS's at least every three yearsUpdate MSDS's at least every three years

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Employer DutiesEmployer Duties Train employees in WHMISTrain employees in WHMIS Train employees in safe work practicesTrain employees in safe work practices Ensure products are labeled with supplier or Ensure products are labeled with supplier or

workplace labelsworkplace labels Provide employees with ready access to Provide employees with ready access to

MSDS'sMSDS's

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Employee DutiesEmployee Duties Participate in trainingParticipate in training Follow prescribed work practicesFollow prescribed work practices Wear required protective equipmentWear required protective equipment

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WHMIS Classes & Symbols

Compressed GasCompressed Gas

Flammable & Combustible MaterialsFlammable & Combustible Materials

Oxidizing MaterialsOxidizing Materials

Poisonous and Infectious MaterialsPoisonous and Infectious Materials

Corrosive MaterialsCorrosive Materials

Dangerously Reactive MaterialsDangerously Reactive Materials

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WHMIS Classes and Symbols

What is the Classification System? Classifications are used to group chemicals

with similar properties or hazards The Controlled Products Regulations specifies

the criteria used to place materials within each classification

There are six (6) classes with some having divisions and subdivisions

Each class has a specific symbol to help people identify the hazard quickly

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Class A - Compressed GasClass A - Compressed Gas Materials which are normally gaseous kept in a Materials which are normally gaseous kept in a

pressurized containerpressurized container Risks:Risks:

could explode due to pressurecould explode due to pressurecould explode if heated or droppedcould explode if heated or droppedhazard from both the force of explosion and the hazard from both the force of explosion and the

release of contentsrelease of contents Eg. Acetylene, Oxygen, NitrogenEg. Acetylene, Oxygen, Nitrogen

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Class B - Flammable & Combustible MaterialClass B - Flammable & Combustible Material Materials which will continue to burn after being Materials which will continue to burn after being

exposed to a flame or other ignition sourceexposed to a flame or other ignition source Risks:Risks:

may ignite spontaneouslymay ignite spontaneouslymay be a material which will release flammable may be a material which will release flammable

products if allowed to degrade or when products if allowed to degrade or when exposed exposed to waterto water

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Class B - Flammable & Combustible MaterialClass B - Flammable & Combustible MaterialDivision 1: Flammable GasDivision 2: Flammable LiquidDivision 3: Combustible LiquidDivision 4: Flammable SolidDivision 5: Flammable AerosolDivision 6: Reactive Flammable Material

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Class B - Flammable & Combustible MaterialClass B - Flammable & Combustible Material

Flammable Gas: Hydrogen, Butane

Flammable Liquid: Gasoline

Combustible Liquid: Diesel Fuel, Organic solvents

Flammable Solid: White Phosphorus, Magnesium

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Class B - Flammable & Combustible MaterialClass B - Flammable & Combustible Material

Flammable Aerosol: flammable propellants such as propane, butane and dimethyl ether

Reactive Flammable Material: aluminum alkyls,

metallic sodium and lithium aluminum hydride

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Class C – Oxidizing MaterialClass C – Oxidizing Material Materials which can cause other materials to burn

or support combustion Risks:

can cause skin or eye burnsincrease fire and explosion hazardmay cause combustibles to explode or react

violently Eg. Ozone, chlorine, & nitrogen dioxide

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Class D – Poisonous and Infectious MaterialClass D – Poisonous and Infectious Material Division 1: Materials Causing Immediate and

Serious Toxic EffectsSubdivision A: Very Toxic MaterialSubdivision B: Toxic Material

Poisons/potentially fatal materials which cause immediate and severe harm

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Class D – Division 1 continued…Class D – Division 1 continued… Risks

May be fatal if ingested or inhaledMay be absorbed through the skinSmall volumes have a toxic effect

Eg. Styrene, hydrogen cyanide

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Class D – Poisonous and Infectious Material Class D – Poisonous and Infectious Material continued…continued…

Division 2: Materials Causing Other Toxic Effects Subdivision A: Very toxic materialSubdivision B: Toxic material

Materials which have harmful effects after repeated exposures or over long periods of time

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Class D – Division 2 continued…Class D – Division 2 continued… Risks:

May cause death or permanent injuryMay cause birth defects or sterilityMay cause cancerMay be sensitizer causing allergies

Eg. Asbestos causes cancer, ammonia is an irritant

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Class D – Poisonous and Infectious Material Class D – Poisonous and Infectious Material continued…continued…

Division 3: Biohazardous Infection Material Infectious agents or a biological toxin causing a

serious disease or death

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Class D – Division 3 continued…Class D – Division 3 continued… Risks:

May cause anaphylactic shockIncludes viruses, yeasts, moulds, bacteria and parasites which affect humansIncludes fluids containing toxic productsIncludes cellular components

Eg. Blood sample containing Hepatitis B virus

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Class E – Corrosive MaterialClass E – Corrosive Material Materials which react with metals and living tissue Risks:

Eye and skin irritation on exposureSevere burns/tissue damage on longer exposureLung damage if inhaledMay cause blindness if eyes contactedEnvironmental damage from fumes

Eg. Ammonia, fluorine, & hydrochloric acid

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Class F – Dangerously Reactive MaterialClass F – Dangerously Reactive Material Materials which may have unexpected reactions Risks:

May react with waterMay be chemically unstableMay explode if exposed to shock or heatMay release toxic or flammable vapours

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May vigorously polymerizeMay burn unexpectedly

Eg. Ozone, hydrazine, and benzoyl peroxide

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Supplier Labels

RequirementsRequirements

ExamplesExamples

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Supplier Labels

RequirementsRequirements Containers of controlled products that are sold Containers of controlled products that are sold

for use in Canadian workplaces must carry a for use in Canadian workplaces must carry a supplier label that contains 7 required items of supplier label that contains 7 required items of information:information:

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Supplier Labels

Name of the product Name of the product Supplier’s name Supplier’s name Hazard Symbol(s) Hazard Symbol(s) Risk phrases Risk phrases Precautionary measuresPrecautionary measures First aid measuresFirst aid measures Reference to a Material Safety Data Sheet Reference to a Material Safety Data Sheet

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Labels -- Rules for Labeling

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Workplace Labels


ExamplesExamples

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Workplace Labels

RequirementsRequirements If the supplier label is destroyed or chemicals If the supplier label is destroyed or chemicals

are transferred from the supplier container to are transferred from the supplier container to another, a workplace label is requiredanother, a workplace label is required

Because it assumes that people in the Because it assumes that people in the workplace are familiar with the chemicals they workplace are familiar with the chemicals they are using, WHMIS sets less stringent are using, WHMIS sets less stringent requirements for an acceptable workplace labelrequirements for an acceptable workplace label

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Workplace Labels

Name of the chemicalName of the chemical Safe handling information Safe handling information Reference to the MSDSReference to the MSDS

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Workplace Labels

In some cases, the container size makes it In some cases, the container size makes it impossible to affix a label that meets all the impossible to affix a label that meets all the requirements for a workplace labelrequirements for a workplace label

In such cases, a system must be created that In such cases, a system must be created that ensures that everyone who works in the ensures that everyone who works in the laboratory can identify the contents and knows laboratory can identify the contents and knows what precautions are needed to prevent injury what precautions are needed to prevent injury or over-exposure, and how to respond to an or over-exposure, and how to respond to an accidentaccident

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Labels -- Rules for Labeling

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Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS)


ExamplesExamples

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Material Safety Data Sheets

Requirements Product/Material Information Hazardous Ingredients Physical Data Fire and Explosion Data Reactivity Data Health Hazard Data

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First Aid Measures Preventative Measures Storage and Handling Spill Clean-up and Waste Disposal Preparation Date

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Product/Material Information This section provides the basic information

about the product and the supplier. Product name Supplier's name and address Emergency phone number Intended use

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Hazardous Ingredients The MSDS must identify all the ingredients that

meet WHMIS criteria and provide some data on the short term toxicity of either the product or the ingredients.

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For Each Hazardous Ingredient :Name Concentration or concentration rangeChemical Abstracts Registry NumbersLD50 (Lethal Dose 50% - the dose which

kills half of the animals in a toxicity test)

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Physical Data The MSDS provides a range of technical data

which allows people to assess how the chemical behaves under differing situations and plan safe work procedures.

Physical state Appearance and odour

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Vapour density, per cent volatile and evaporation rate for products with volatile components

Boiling and freezing points and PH (if appropriate) for liquids

Specific gravity Coefficient of oil/water separation Water solubility

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Fire and Explosion Data The MSDS provides information on which the

workplace can plan fire prevention and which emergency responders may need in the event that a fire occurs

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Fire Data:Indication of whether the product is

flammable and the conditions under which a fire might occur

Means of extinctionFlash point (the temperature at which

enough of the material evaporates to form an ignitable mixture with air)

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Flammable limits (concentration range over which the vapour/air mixture will burn)

Auto ignition temperatureHazardous combustion products

Explosion dataSensitivity to impactSensitivity to static electric ignition

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Reactivity Data WHMIS requires that the supplier provide

information about the possible hazardous chemical reactions that might occur

Many laboratory chemicals are highly reactive Even some of the trades or custodial chemicals

can react with other chemicals or can react if exposed to heat or mixed with catalysts or activators

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Stability Sensitivity to shock or temperature or pressure

changes Reactivity Incompatibility - chemicals which, if allowed to

contact the product, could create a reaction hazard

Hazardous decomposition products

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Toxicological Properties WHMIS requires the supplier to describe how

people might come into contact with the product and what the short and long term effects would be if someone was over-exposed

Route of entry into the body Effects of acute (short term) exposure Effects of chronic (long term) exposure Legal exposure limit

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Preventive Measures One of the most useful sections of the MSDS Supplier lists suggestions for the precautions

which should be taken in storing, handling, using and disposing of the product

These suggestions need to be considered carefully

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The supplier cannot always know in detail how we are going to use the chemical

You should review the information in this section with your supervisor and assess how appropriate the supplier's suggestions are in your particular work situation

Engineering controls - equipment needed to prevent over-exposure

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Personal protective equipment - gloves, respirators, impervious clothing, etc.

Use and handling procedures Storage requirements Leak and spill procedures Shipping information Disposal practices

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First Aid Measures The MSDS provides first aid information

similar to that presented on the product label This information will allow people to help

someone who has been made unwell by a chemical

In all but the most minor cases, the affected person should be treated at the Ryerson Health Centre or the nearest hospital

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The medical personnel will need a copy of the MSDS, or at least label information, to effectively treat the victim

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Preparation The regulations require the supplier to indicate

who prepared the MSDSwhen it was prepared a phone number to contact the person who

prepared the document

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WHMIS and the Transportation of Dangerous Goods

A ComparisonA Comparison

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WHMIS & TDG – A Comparison

The requirements under WHMIS and under the The requirements under WHMIS and under the TDG legislation are complementary information TDG legislation are complementary information systemssystems

TDG legislation sets out information requirements TDG legislation sets out information requirements for products being shipped to and from for products being shipped to and from workplacesworkplaces

WHMIS applies to products inside workplacesWHMIS applies to products inside workplaces No overlap is intended --- One system takes over No overlap is intended --- One system takes over

where the other leaves off where the other leaves off

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Worker exposure to dangerous goods that are IN Worker exposure to dangerous goods that are IN TRANSIT is most likely to occur during an emergency TRANSIT is most likely to occur during an emergency such as a vehicle accident or spill. Therefore, information such as a vehicle accident or spill. Therefore, information provided under TDG requirements addresses short-term provided under TDG requirements addresses short-term exposures and uses symbols on labels and placards.exposures and uses symbols on labels and placards.

Worker exposure to controlled products in the workplace Worker exposure to controlled products in the workplace can occur in a wider variety of circumstances and over can occur in a wider variety of circumstances and over longer periods of time. WHMIS requirements are more longer periods of time. WHMIS requirements are more extensive than TDG and include the use of explicit labels extensive than TDG and include the use of explicit labels and material safety data sheets.and material safety data sheets.

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WHMIS and TDG Classification Systems The classification of products under WHMIS The classification of products under WHMIS

and TDG is similar but not identicaland TDG is similar but not identical WHMIS has 6 Classes, designated A to F and WHMIS has 6 Classes, designated A to F and

TDG has 9 Classes, designated 1 to 9 TDG has 9 Classes, designated 1 to 9 WHMIS Classes A to E have comparable WHMIS Classes A to E have comparable

Classes in TDG, but Class F has no equivalent Classes in TDG, but Class F has no equivalent in TDG in TDG

TDG has 2 Classes that have no equivalent in TDG has 2 Classes that have no equivalent in WHMIS --- Class 1, Explosives and Class 7, WHMIS --- Class 1, Explosives and Class 7, Radioactive MaterialsRadioactive Materials

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WHMISWHMIS TDGNo EquivalentNo Equivalent Class 1Class 1

ExplosivesExplosives

No EquivalentNo Equivalent Class 7Class 7

Radioactive MaterialsRadioactive Materials

Class AClass A

Compressed GasesCompressed Gases

Class 2 Class 2

Compressed GasesCompressed Gases

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WHMIS TDGClass BClass B

Flammable and Flammable and Combustible MaterialCombustible Material

Class 3Class 3

Flammable LiquidsFlammable Liquids

Class 4Class 4

Flammable Solids,Flammable Solids,

SpontaneouslySpontaneously

Combustible,Combustible,

Dangerous When WetDangerous When Wet

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WHMIS TDGClass C

Oxidizing Material Oxidizing Material

Class 5Class 5

Oxidizing Substances and Oxidizing Substances and Organic PeroxidesOrganic Peroxides

Class D

Poisonous and Infectious Poisonous and Infectious MaterialMaterial

Class 6

Poisonous and InfectiousPoisonous and Infectious

SubstancesSubstances

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WHMIS TDGClass E

Corrosive Material Corrosive Material

Class 8

Corrosives Corrosives

Class F

Dangerously Reactive Dangerously Reactive Material Material

No EquivalentNo Equivalent

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WHMISWHMIS TDGNo EquivalentNo Equivalent Class 9

Miscellaneous ProductsMiscellaneous Products

or Substancesor Substances

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Chemical Hazards

FlammabilityFlammability

ReactivityReactivity

HealthHealth

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Chemical Hazards

FlammabilityFlammability readily catches fire and burns in airreadily catches fire and burns in air liquid does not burn - the vapours burnliquid does not burn - the vapours burn flash point, auto-ignition temperature, flash point, auto-ignition temperature,

explosive limits, vapour density and ability to explosive limits, vapour density and ability to accumulate an electrostatic charge are accumulate an electrostatic charge are important factors in determining the degree of important factors in determining the degree of fire hazardfire hazard

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Chemical Hazards

ReactivityReactivity Involves the release of energy (Involves the release of energy (heatheat) in ) in

relatively high quantities or at a rapid raterelatively high quantities or at a rapid rate If the heat evolved in a reaction is not If the heat evolved in a reaction is not

dissipated, the reaction rate can increase until dissipated, the reaction rate can increase until an explosion resultsan explosion results

Some chemicals decompose rapidly when Some chemicals decompose rapidly when heatedheated

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Chemical Hazards

Light or mechanical shock can also initiate Light or mechanical shock can also initiate explosive reactionsexplosive reactions

Some compounds are inherently unstable and Some compounds are inherently unstable and can detonate under certain conditions of can detonate under certain conditions of pressure and temperature, while others react pressure and temperature, while others react violently with water or when exposed to air violently with water or when exposed to air

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Chemical Hazards

HealthHealth Contact with many chemicals can result in Contact with many chemicals can result in

adverse health effectsadverse health effects The nature and magnitude of toxic effects will The nature and magnitude of toxic effects will

depend on many factors including the nature of depend on many factors including the nature of the substance, route of exposure, magnitude of the substance, route of exposure, magnitude of the dose, duration of exposure, and individual the dose, duration of exposure, and individual susceptibilitysusceptibility

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Health Effects of Toxic Substances

Toxicity vs. HazardToxicity vs. Hazard

Routes of EntryRoutes of Entry

Health Effects – Chronic vs. AcuteHealth Effects – Chronic vs. Acute

Exposure – Chronic vs. AcuteExposure – Chronic vs. Acute

Physiological Classification of MaterialsPhysiological Classification of Materials

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Many materials used in the workplace can be Many materials used in the workplace can be hazardoushazardous

In order for them to affect your health, they must In order for them to affect your health, they must contact the body or be absorbed into the bodycontact the body or be absorbed into the body

In order to assess the potential health effects from In order to assess the potential health effects from working with a particular material, it is necessary working with a particular material, it is necessary to understand the difference between “toxicity” to understand the difference between “toxicity” and “hazard”and “hazard”

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TOXICITYTOXICITY is the ability of a substance to produce is the ability of a substance to produce an unwanted effect when the chemical has reached an unwanted effect when the chemical has reached a sufficient concentration at a certain site in the a sufficient concentration at a certain site in the bodybody The greater the toxicity = smaller absorption The greater the toxicity = smaller absorption

amount required to cause harmful effectsamount required to cause harmful effects The toxicity of a chemical is generally The toxicity of a chemical is generally

measured by experiments on animals (quite measured by experiments on animals (quite often rats)often rats)

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If it is measured in terms of the amounts of If it is measured in terms of the amounts of material necessary to cause death in 50% of the material necessary to cause death in 50% of the test animalstest animals

These values are called LD50 (lethal dose) or These values are called LD50 (lethal dose) or LC50 (lethal concentration), and are usually LC50 (lethal concentration), and are usually given in weight of material per kg of body given in weight of material per kg of body weight or airborne concentration of material per weight or airborne concentration of material per set time period respectively set time period respectively

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HAZARDHAZARD is the probability that this concentration is the probability that this concentration in the body will occurin the body will occur Toxicity is an inherent property of the materialToxicity is an inherent property of the material A material may be very toxic, but not A material may be very toxic, but not

hazardous, if it is handled properly and is not hazardous, if it is handled properly and is not absorbed into the bodyabsorbed into the body

On the other hand, a material may have a very On the other hand, a material may have a very low toxicity, but be very hazardouslow toxicity, but be very hazardous

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Examples:Examples:An open container of an acid is much more An open container of an acid is much more

hazardous than a closed container of the hazardous than a closed container of the same materialsame material

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Two liquids may possess the same degree of Two liquids may possess the same degree of toxicity but present different degrees of hazard:toxicity but present different degrees of hazard:

One material may be non-irritating to the One material may be non-irritating to the eyes and nose and odourlesseyes and nose and odourless

The other may be irritating to the eyes or The other may be irritating to the eyes or respiratory system and possess a pungent respiratory system and possess a pungent odour odour

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Routes of EntryRoutes of Entry There are three primary routes of entry into the There are three primary routes of entry into the

body: body: IngestionIngestionSkin or eye absorptionSkin or eye absorptionInhalationInhalation

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Ingestion:Ingestion:Taking a material into the body by mouth Taking a material into the body by mouth

(swallowing)(swallowing)Ingestion of toxic materials may occur as a Ingestion of toxic materials may occur as a

result of eating in a contaminated work arearesult of eating in a contaminated work area

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AbsorptionAbsorptionSubstances that contact the eye and the skin Substances that contact the eye and the skin

may be either absorbed into the body or may be either absorbed into the body or cause local effectscause local effects

For the majority of organic compounds, the For the majority of organic compounds, the contribution from skin absorption to the total contribution from skin absorption to the total exposure should not be neglectedexposure should not be neglected

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InhalationInhalationTaking a material into the body by breathing Taking a material into the body by breathing

it init inIn the lungs, very tiny blood vessels are in In the lungs, very tiny blood vessels are in

constant contact with the air we breath inconstant contact with the air we breath inAirborne contaminants can be easily Airborne contaminants can be easily

absorbed through this tissueabsorbed through this tissueGenerally the most important route of entryGenerally the most important route of entry

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Health Effects – Chronic vs. AcuteHealth Effects – Chronic vs. Acute Once a toxic substance has contacted the body Once a toxic substance has contacted the body

it may have either acute (immediate) or chronic it may have either acute (immediate) or chronic (long term) effects. Example: Spilling acid on (long term) effects. Example: Spilling acid on your hand will cause immediate harm, i.e. a your hand will cause immediate harm, i.e. a burn to the skin. burn to the skin.

Exposure to asbestos or tobacco smoke may Exposure to asbestos or tobacco smoke may result in lung cancer after as much as twenty result in lung cancer after as much as twenty years (this is a long term effect). years (this is a long term effect).

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Exposure - Chronic vs. AcuteExposure - Chronic vs. Acute Exposure can be classified as chronic or acuteExposure can be classified as chronic or acute In chronic exposures, the dose is delivered at In chronic exposures, the dose is delivered at

some frequency (daily or weekly usually) over some frequency (daily or weekly usually) over a period of timea period of time

In acute exposures, the dose is delivered in a In acute exposures, the dose is delivered in a single event and absorption is rapidsingle event and absorption is rapid

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Usually, a chronic exposure occurs at low Usually, a chronic exposure occurs at low concentration and acute exposure at high concentration and acute exposure at high concentrationconcentration

Some materials may only cause harm if given Some materials may only cause harm if given acutely, not having any effect in the long termacutely, not having any effect in the long term

Other materials may not exhibit an effect in the Other materials may not exhibit an effect in the short term, but may cause problems after short term, but may cause problems after prolonged exposure prolonged exposure

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Physiological Classification of MaterialsPhysiological Classification of Materials This classification identifies toxic materials on This classification identifies toxic materials on

the basis of biologic actionthe basis of biologic action

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IrritantsIrritantsrefers to some sort of aggravation of refers to some sort of aggravation of

whatever tissue the material comes in whatever tissue the material comes in contact withcontact with

E.g. ammonia, nitrogen dioxide E.g. ammonia, nitrogen dioxide

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AsphyxiantsAsphyxiantsexert their effects through a depletion of exert their effects through a depletion of

oxygen to the tissuesoxygen to the tissuesE.g. simple asphyxiants - carbon dioxide, E.g. simple asphyxiants - carbon dioxide,

nitrogen, methane, hydrogennitrogen, methane, hydrogenE.g. chemical asphyxiants - carbon E.g. chemical asphyxiants - carbon

monoxide, hydrogen cyanide, hydrogen monoxide, hydrogen cyanide, hydrogen sulphidesulphide

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Narcotics or AnaestheticsNarcotics or Anaesthetics the main toxic action is the depressant effect the main toxic action is the depressant effect

upon the Central Nervous Systemupon the Central Nervous SystemE.g. - many organics, chloroform, xylene. E.g. - many organics, chloroform, xylene.

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Systemic PoisonsSystemic Poisons the main toxic action includes the production the main toxic action includes the production

of internal damageof internal damageE.g. Hepatotoxic agents - toxic effects E.g. Hepatotoxic agents - toxic effects

produce liver damage. eg. carbon produce liver damage. eg. carbon tetrachloridetetrachloride

E.g. Nephrotoxic agents - toxic effects E.g. Nephrotoxic agents - toxic effects produce kidney damage eg. some produce kidney damage eg. some halogenated hydrocarbonshalogenated hydrocarbons

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CarcinogensCarcinogensagents/compounds that will induce cancer in agents/compounds that will induce cancer in

humanshumansE.g. benzene, arsenic, inorganic salts of E.g. benzene, arsenic, inorganic salts of

chromium, nickel, berylliumchromium, nickel, beryllium

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MutagensMutagensagents that affect the cells of the exposed agents that affect the cells of the exposed

people in such a way that it may cause people in such a way that it may cause cancer in the exposed individual or an cancer in the exposed individual or an undesirable mutation to occur in some later undesirable mutation to occur in some later generationgeneration

E.g. radiation, variety of chemical agents E.g. radiation, variety of chemical agents that alter the genetic messagethat alter the genetic message

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TeratogensTeratogensAgents or compounds that a pregnant Agents or compounds that a pregnant

woman takes into her body that generate woman takes into her body that generate defects in the fetusdefects in the fetus

E.g. Thalidomide, possibly steroids E.g. Thalidomide, possibly steroids

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SensitizersSensitizersAgents that may cause allergic or allergic-Agents that may cause allergic or allergic-

like responses to occurlike responses to occurAfter an initial exposure to a substance an After an initial exposure to a substance an

individual may become sensitized to that individual may become sensitized to that substancesubstance

Subsequent exposures to the same substance, Subsequent exposures to the same substance, often at a much lower concentration than often at a much lower concentration than before, produce an allergic responsebefore, produce an allergic response

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This response may be a skin rash (dermatitis) This response may be a skin rash (dermatitis) or an asthmatic-like attack, depending on the or an asthmatic-like attack, depending on the route of exposureroute of exposure

E.g. cutting oils, isocyanates in polyurethane E.g. cutting oils, isocyanates in polyurethane foam operations and paint spraying foam operations and paint spraying operations, some laboratory solventsoperations, some laboratory solvents

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Protective Measures

Elimination/SubstitutionElimination/Substitution

Engineering ControlsEngineering Controls

Work PracticesWork Practices

Personal Protective DevicesPersonal Protective Devices

Other Safe PracticesOther Safe Practices

Emergency ProvisionsEmergency Provisions

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Protective Measures

Elimination/Substitution Ideally, the toxic substance used or generated Ideally, the toxic substance used or generated

should be eliminatedshould be eliminated Since this is not always possible, substituting a Since this is not always possible, substituting a

less hazardous substance can often be effective less hazardous substance can often be effective in reducing work exposure to toxic substancesin reducing work exposure to toxic substances

Eg. Is it necessary to use benzene for cleaning; Eg. Is it necessary to use benzene for cleaning; usually, 1,1,1-trichloroethane will do the job usually, 1,1,1-trichloroethane will do the job just as welljust as well

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Protective Measures

Engineering Controls IsolationIsolation Design or Change of ProcessDesign or Change of Process Local SuppressionLocal Suppression VentilationVentilation

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Protective Measures

Isolation Hazardous processes or equipment can be Hazardous processes or equipment can be

segregated into separate rooms or areas or put segregated into separate rooms or areas or put in enclosures so as not to contaminate the in enclosures so as not to contaminate the whole workplace whole workplace

Eg. Operator booths are common in crusher Eg. Operator booths are common in crusher operations (extremely dusty environments), operations (extremely dusty environments), crane cabs in hazardous areas, etc.crane cabs in hazardous areas, etc.

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Protective Measures

Design or Change of Process Often simple considerations can significantly Often simple considerations can significantly

improve conditions. improve conditions. Eg. packaging of exact amounts of material to Eg. packaging of exact amounts of material to

add to a process rather than pouring, pumping, add to a process rather than pouring, pumping, scooping, etc. from a bulk supplyscooping, etc. from a bulk supply

Eg. grouping of hazardous operations for Eg. grouping of hazardous operations for better control.better control.

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Protective Measures

Local Suppression Wetting or pelletizing of dusty materials or Wetting or pelletizing of dusty materials or

blanketing of toxic liquids. blanketing of toxic liquids. eg. Use of damp mopping in contaminated, eg. Use of damp mopping in contaminated,

dusty areasdusty areas eg. Use of plastic balls or surface active agents eg. Use of plastic balls or surface active agents

in liquid tanks such as plating tanks.in liquid tanks such as plating tanks.

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Protective Measures

Ventilation Ventilation is used to control airborne hazards Ventilation is used to control airborne hazards

in the form of dusts, fibres, mists, fumes, gases, in the form of dusts, fibres, mists, fumes, gases, and vapoursand vapours

The two methods of applying ventilation to The two methods of applying ventilation to provide contaminant control areprovide contaminant control are

general dilution ventilation general dilution ventilation local exhaust local exhaust

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Protective Measures

Dilution Ventilationdilution of contaminated air with dilution of contaminated air with

uncontaminated air in a general area, room, uncontaminated air in a general area, room, or building for the purpose of health hazard, or building for the purpose of health hazard, nuisance control, and/or heating and cooling. nuisance control, and/or heating and cooling.

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Protective Measures

Local exhaust involves the capture of pollutants at the involves the capture of pollutants at the

source source Air movement is achieved by either natural Air movement is achieved by either natural

or mechanical methods such as fansor mechanical methods such as fans

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Protective Measures

the choice or type of ventilation depends on the choice or type of ventilation depends on such factors as:such factors as:

• Toxicity or nuisance of the contaminantToxicity or nuisance of the contaminant• Method and rate of generationMethod and rate of generation• Physical state of the contaminantPhysical state of the contaminant• Relative costs of different types of Relative costs of different types of

ventilationventilation

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Protective Measures

Work and Hygiene Practices Work practices, procedures and hygiene Work practices, procedures and hygiene

practices supplement engineering controlspractices supplement engineering controls These practices represent on the job activities These practices represent on the job activities

that reduce the potential for exposure to toxic that reduce the potential for exposure to toxic

substances and include:substances and include:

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Protective Measures

Posting warning signs and labeling Posting warning signs and labeling hazardous materials hazardous materials

Preventive maintenance of equipment Preventive maintenance of equipment Keeping records of employee exposure and Keeping records of employee exposure and

making them available to employees making them available to employees Providing emergency facilities, such as Providing emergency facilities, such as

eyewash fountains and deluge showers, eyewash fountains and deluge showers, where appropriatewhere appropriate

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Protective Measures

Prohibiting eating, drinking or smoking in Prohibiting eating, drinking or smoking in areas where materials in use are toxic by areas where materials in use are toxic by ingestion or may be inhaled through ingestion or may be inhaled through smoking smoking

Maintaining Good Housekeeping• good housekeeping provides for the removal of good housekeeping provides for the removal of

hazardous materials that might otherwise hazardous materials that might otherwise become airbornebecome airborne

• a clean workplace tends to foster good work a clean workplace tends to foster good work habits that probably reduce accumulationshabits that probably reduce accumulations

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Protective Measures

Maintaining Personal Cleanliness• clean work clothes, regular showers and clean work clothes, regular showers and

frequent washing will reduce skin contamination frequent washing will reduce skin contamination that may lead to skin absorption, dermatitis or that may lead to skin absorption, dermatitis or ingestioningestion

• A further consideration for personal cleanliness A further consideration for personal cleanliness is the possibility of an individual carrying toxic is the possibility of an individual carrying toxic material home on work clothes or on the person material home on work clothes or on the person and in turn placing the family at risk and in turn placing the family at risk

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Protective Measures

Training• Individuals should be well aware of the hazards Individuals should be well aware of the hazards

of the materials being used and the precautions of the materials being used and the precautions to be observedto be observed

• An informed worker can make a rational An informed worker can make a rational decision to accept such work and to wisely use decision to accept such work and to wisely use the equipment provided for his/her protectionthe equipment provided for his/her protection

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Protective Measures

Personal Protective DevicesPersonal Protective Devices These include protective glasses and goggles, These include protective glasses and goggles,

face shields, protective clothing (laboratory face shields, protective clothing (laboratory coats and gloves), skin creams, and respiratorscoats and gloves), skin creams, and respirators

It should be noted that respirators in particular, It should be noted that respirators in particular, are not intended to be used as a primary means are not intended to be used as a primary means of control in lieu of other methodsof control in lieu of other methods

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Protective Measures

Two essential elements of protective equipment Two essential elements of protective equipment use are:use are:

The choice of the proper type• For example, when choosing respirators For example, when choosing respirators

and hearing protectors, the factors to be and hearing protectors, the factors to be considered include:considered include:

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Protective Measures

type of hazardtype of hazardextent of exposureextent of exposure individual preferenceindividual preference individual fitindividual fitease of supervisionease of supervision legislative requirements legislative requirements

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Protective Measures

The provision of an adequate maintenance program for the equipment

• A maintenance program for the A maintenance program for the equipment must be in the care of a equipment must be in the care of a qualified person and will include, at qualified person and will include, at regular intervals:regular intervals:

– Inspection and RepairInspection and Repair– Cleaning Cleaning – StorageStorage

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Protective Measures

Other Safe Practices and Emergency Provisions Leak and Chemical Spill ProcedureLeak and Chemical Spill Procedure

Prompt action is necessary to reduce and Prompt action is necessary to reduce and eliminate hazards created by a chemical spilleliminate hazards created by a chemical spill

• Wear proper personal protective Wear proper personal protective equipment (equipment (e.g. gloves, respiratorse.g. gloves, respirators) as ) as specified in the MSDSspecified in the MSDS

• Absorb or neutralize liquidsAbsorb or neutralize liquids• Sweep solids into a containerSweep solids into a container

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Protective Measures

• Ventilate area to dispel vapours if Ventilate area to dispel vapours if requiredrequired

• Wash affected area with soap and water Wash affected area with soap and water or detergentor detergent

• All materials used in cleanup, including All materials used in cleanup, including absorbed liquids are to be disposed as absorbed liquids are to be disposed as hazardous waste - Label waste hazardous waste - Label waste appropriatelyappropriately

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Protective Measures

If proper equipment is not available to safely If proper equipment is not available to safely contain and decontaminate a spill - evacuate contain and decontaminate a spill - evacuate the area and contact the appropriate the area and contact the appropriate personnel (a list of emergency contacts personnel (a list of emergency contacts should be provided in each lab/work area)should be provided in each lab/work area)

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Protective Measures

Waste DisposalWaste DisposalThe disposal of hazardous chemicals is The disposal of hazardous chemicals is

regulated by Ontario environmental regulated by Ontario environmental legislationlegislation

NOTHING GOES DOWN THE DRAIN in a NOTHING GOES DOWN THE DRAIN in a laboratory (ask if you are not sure)laboratory (ask if you are not sure)

Generators of hazardous wastes are Generators of hazardous wastes are responsible for properly packaging and responsible for properly packaging and labeling such wasteslabeling such wastes

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Protective Measures

Storage RequirementsStorage RequirementsThe hazard potential presented by The hazard potential presented by

flammable, reactive and toxic substances can flammable, reactive and toxic substances can also be reduced by adherence to safe storage also be reduced by adherence to safe storage proceduresprocedures

Quantities of these substances should be kept Quantities of these substances should be kept to a minimumto a minimum

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Protective Measures

All containers must be labeled with the All containers must be labeled with the names of the contents and appropriate hazard names of the contents and appropriate hazard warningswarnings

In laboratories or stockrooms, care should be In laboratories or stockrooms, care should be taken to avoid exposure of chemicals to heat taken to avoid exposure of chemicals to heat or direct sunlightor direct sunlight

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Protective Measures

Always observe precautions regarding the Always observe precautions regarding the proximity of incompatible substances (e.g. proximity of incompatible substances (e.g. do not store alphabetically - store in do not store alphabetically - store in compatible groups)compatible groups)

Highly toxic chemicals should be stored in Highly toxic chemicals should be stored in ventilated storage areas in unbreakable ventilated storage areas in unbreakable chemically resistant secondary containerschemically resistant secondary containers

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Protective Measures

Properly labeled portable safety cans should Properly labeled portable safety cans should be used for handling small quantities of be used for handling small quantities of flammable liquidsflammable liquids

When not in use these portable cans should When not in use these portable cans should be kept in enclosed fire-resistant cabinetsbe kept in enclosed fire-resistant cabinets

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Protective Measures

Larger quantities of solvents should be Larger quantities of solvents should be stored in correctly designed ventilated stored in correctly designed ventilated storage areasstorage areas

Flammable liquids should not be stored in Flammable liquids should not be stored in laboratory refrigerators unless the unit is an laboratory refrigerators unless the unit is an approved, explosion-proof, or laboratory-approved, explosion-proof, or laboratory-safe typesafe type

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WHMIS in Laboratories

Topics Acute/Chronic Health Effects Symptoms Laboratory Equipment Personal Protective Equipment Storage Guidelines Chemical Spill/Fire Special Hazards

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WHMIS in Laboratories -- Acute Health Effects

Acute Immediate Effect

Powdered and liquid chemicals that contact the skin, the face or the eyes may be an ACUTE hazard

Clothing that has become saturated may also present an ACUTE hazard for that part of the body

Mists or fumes from some chemicals in high concentrations may be inhaled and may present an ACUTE hazard

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WHMIS in Laboratories –Chronic Health Effects

Chronic Delayed Effect

Occasional moderate contact with liquid and powdered chemicals, over a period of time, may result in CHRONIC skin problems

Rashes, blisters, cracking skin are known as “dermatitis”

Excessive exposure to mists or vapours over a period of time may result in CHRONIC respiratory problems or in irritation of the eyes

Some chemicals may also be SENSITIZERS

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WHMIS in Laboratories –Symptoms

If not used properly, the following health effects may be encountered, on the skin, in the eyes or in the lungs: Burning Irritation Permanent Damage

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WHMIS in Laboratories –Laboratory Equipment

Fumehoods Glassware, Syringes, Pipettes Machines Refrigerators & Freezers Heat sources Pumps Equipment for working at temperature extremes

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WHMIS in Laboratories –Personal Protective Equipment

Typical examples include: Goggles, face shields, respirators, gloves, boots,

aprons, suits Refer to the Material Safety Data Sheet for a

given chemical for the specific PPE that is required

Such items MUST be worn during the entire process even if you are not doing anything!

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WHMIS in Laboratories –Storage Guidelines

Segregate chemical combinations that may be reactive

Flammable chemicals (such as solvents) should be stored in approved cabinets

Observe precautions regarding ignition sources Store pressurized containers according to the

precautionary statements on the label General ventilation should be provided

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WHMIS in Laboratories –Chemical Fire/Spill

For a minor spill, contain, control and clean-up using proper equipment and safe procedures

For a major spill, assess the situation Refer to the MSDS and container labels Evacuate if necessary

In the event of fire, evacuate

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WHMIS in Laboratories –Information YOU Need to Know

YOU must be able to answer the following questions regarding the controlled products you are exposed to:

What are the hazards of the controlled product? How do I protect myself and those I work with from

these hazards? What do I do if a spill occurs? Where do I get more information about this

controlled product?

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WHMIS in Laboratories –Special Hazards

Hazards of Compressed GasesBiological HazardsRadiationNon-ionizing RadiationLaboratory WasteElectrical SafetyErgonomics

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WHMIS at Ryerson

TrainingTraining

Material Safety Data SheetsMaterial Safety Data Sheets

WHMIS in Your WorkplaceWHMIS in Your Workplace

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WHMIS at Ryerson - Training

Employer Responsibilities The employer must provide a training program

which includes instruction about:Labels and MSDS’s – their purpose and

contents and the significance of eachProcedures for safe handling, use, storage

and disposal of hazardous materials specific to the workplace (Supervisor)

Emergency procedures (Supervisor)

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Worker Responsibilities The worker is required under the legislation to

participate in the education program provided by the employer

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Who Receives the Training? Anyone who WORKS with, or is in CLOSE

proximity to hazardous products Anyone who USES, HANDLES, STORES or

DISPOSES of the hazardous material Anyone who SUPERVISES the performance of

the above duties

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WHMIS at Ryerson - MSDS

Material Safety Data Sheets Order them each time you purchase a chemical

for the first time…reorder if there is not one available or find the closest one using the CAS#

Read them PRIOR to using the product Everyone using hazardous materials must have

easy access to the Material Safety Data Sheets Have a binder with MSDS’s for easy reference

and in case of emergency

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WHMIS at Ryerson – In Your Workplace

How to Establish WHMIS at your Workplace (For Supervisors) Assign responsibility for the program

implementation Establish an inventory of controlled products Ensure that WHMIS labeling and Material

Safety Data Sheets are in place by a pre-determined date

Determine the hazards of the controlled products

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WHMIS at Ryerson – In Your Workplace

Establish protective precautions, e.g. what personal protective equipment needs to be used, work procedures

Establish emergency procedures in case of spill or worker exposure

Provide worker education Review the WHMIS program every year

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Summary

Perform a Risk Assessment on the work that you are doing

Be familiar with the work that is going on in the same lab as you

YOU must know the hazards, the associated risks and control measures in order to protect yourself, your colleagues and Ryerson

1 Overview of the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) Catherine Drum, BASc...

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