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What's Required on WHMIS Labels?

Let's get right to the point.  There are three types of WHMIS labels and their general purpose is to alert you to dangers and precautions while working with controlled products.

1. SUPPLIER LABELS

Supplier labels come from the manufacturer of the controlled product and are usually located on the back of the container.  These labels cannot be reproduced in the workplace. They can be easily identified by their cross-hatched border.

The following information must be included on a supplier label:
 

	Product Name
	Identifier and Risks
	Hazard Symbols
	Precautions
	First Aid Measures
	Reference to the MSDS
	Supplier/Manufacturer Information
	Information must be in French and English
	Cross-hatched border

Click to see example supplier label

2. WORKPLACE LABELS

Workplace labels are meant to be produced in the workplace, by the employer or employee. There are two scenarios where workplace labels may be used:
 

In both of these cases, workplace labels must be applied to the container.  Workplace labels require less information than supplier labels and can be in any colour, as long as they are easily visible. Also, the cross-hatched border is not required.

The following information must be included on a workplace label:
 

	Product Name
	Safe Handling Information
	Reference to the MSDS

Click to see example workplace label

3. LABORATORY LABELS

Laboratory labels are the rarest kinds of labels and, under WHMIS, only used in certain circumstances.

These labels are typically used when a controlled product is being transported from one laboratory to another and when the weight is less than 10 KG.

The following information must be included on a laboratory label:
 

	Product Name
	Supplier's Name
	Listing of the Chemicals in the Product
	Emergency Phone Number

When a laboratory label is used, it must replace or cover any existing supplier labels on the product.

Click to see example laboratory label