WHMIS Updates to GHS Revision 7 & 8: What You Need to Know

Key Changes to SDSs and Classification Requirements

1. New Hazard Classes & Subcategories

• Flammable Gases split into:
  • Category 1A: Pyrophoric or chemically unstable gases
  • Category 1B: Other flammable gases
• Aerosols renamed; Category 3 added for non-flammable aerosols
• Chemicals Under Pressure: A new hazard class with full pictogram and signal word requirements
• Updates also affect:
  • Oxidizing solids
  • Combustible dust
  • Acute toxicity
  • Carcinogenicity

2. Section 9: Physical & Chemical Properties (Expanded)

Now required:

• Physical state, colour, particle characteristics
• Kinematic viscosity
• Relative vapour density

Removed:

• Odour threshold and evaporation rate (can still be included as supplemental data)

3. Section 3: Ingredient Disclosure

• All hazardous ingredients above the relevant cutoff must now be listed—even if they don’t contribute to classification.

4. Water-Activated Toxicants

• SDSs must include a hazard statement if toxic gas is released when the product reacts with water.

5. Trade Secret Concentration Ranges

• Narrower concentration ranges are now allowed, provided they remain within HPR’s legal parameters.

Transition & Compliance Timeline

• Suppliers and manufacturers must update SDSs and labels by December 14, 2025.
• During the transition period, you must choose either full pre- or post-amendment compliance—mixing is not allowed.
• Employers must update WHMIS training programs and workplace chemical procedures to reflect the new classifications and label elements.

How MySDS Can Support You

• SDS authoring systems updated to support GHS 7 & 8 formats
• Automated notifications for new SDS versions
• Industry-compliant SDS portals with clear version control
• Expertise in multilingual SDSs and label compliance
• Training resources and WHMIS program alignment tools

Next Steps for Compliance

1. Inventory Check – Identify SDSs that may be outdated
2. Gap Analysis – Review SDSs against updated Section 9 and hazard classes
3. Update or Re-Author – Work with suppliers or MySDS to bring documentation into compliance
4. Train Your Teams – Revise WHMIS training materials to reflect new standards
5. Communicate – Alert internal stakeholders to changes and the compliance deadline