What is the target date for GHS revisions to WHMIS?

Amendments to the Hazardous Products Regulations (HPR) were published in the Canada Gazette, Part II, on January 4, 2023, to align with the 7^th revised edition, and certain provisions of the 8^th revised edition, of the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS). The amendments came into force on December 15, 2022. “In force” means that suppliers may begin to use and follow the new requirements for hazardous products sold, distributed, or imported into Canada.

The regulatory amendments provide a 3-year transition period, ending on December 14, 2025.

The transition to the amended HPR is from the former HPR that were in effect immediately before the coming into force of the amendments. The 3-year transition period gives suppliers, employers, and workers time to adjust to the changes, and helps ensure consistency across Canada through coordination and alignment between federal, provincial, and territorial jurisdictions.

During the 3-year transition period, regulated parties can choose to comply with either the former HPR or the amended HPR, but not a combination of both. The hazard classification and safety data sheet (and label, if applicable) of a hazardous product must be fully compliant with the version of the regulation chosen.

Health Canada recommends affected employers be ready to demonstrate which version of the HPR their product complies with upon request.