Recent amendments to federal hazardous product regulations necessitate updates to Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and labels, impacting workplace chemical safety programs. The Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development (MLITSD) is actively verifying that employers have not only updated their chemical information but have also retrained their workforce on these crucial changes. This post details what employers need to know to stay compliant and protect their workers from chemical hazards.
Why This Matters
Properly trained workers are the first line of defense against hazardous materials in the workplace. Recent amendments to the federal Hazardous Products Regulations (HPR) require updates to safety data sheets (SDS) and labels, meaning existing WHMIS training may no longer be sufficient.
Campaign Timeline
The MLITSD’s WHMIS compliance campaign commenced on April 1, 2025, and is ongoing.
What MLITSD Inspectors Will Be Looking For
Expect MLITSD hygienists to assess:
- Current SDS & Label Compliance: Are the SDS and labels for hazardous products in your workplace compliant with the amended HPR?
- Updated WHMIS Training: Have workers received updated training that incorporates the changes to SDS and labels?
- Training Documentation: Can you demonstrate that workers have received appropriate WHMIS training?
- Accessibility of Information: Are SDS readily accessible to all workers who may be exposed to hazardous materials?
Practical Steps to Get Ready
- Review Your Hazardous Products Inventory: Identify all hazardous products used in your workplace.
- Assess SDS & Label Compliance: Ensure your current SDS and labels are compliant with the amended HPR.
- Update Training Materials: Revise your WHMIS training program to incorporate the changes to SDS and labels.
- Schedule Retraining: Provide updated WHMIS training to all workers who may be exposed to hazardous materials.
How ECOH Can Help
ECOH offers a full suite of services to help you prepare for the Ministry inspection, including:
- Hazardous Products Inventory Assessments
- SDS & Label Compliance Reviews
- Customized WHMIS Training Programs
- Training Documentation Management
- Gap Analysis & Mock Inspections
Don’t wait until the MLITSD inspectors arrive! Contact ECOH today to schedule a consultation and ensure your workplace is safe, compliant, and protected.
Source: Ontario MLITSD — Health and safety compliance campaigns 2025–2026.
