Supplier Labels

2006
ISBN: 0-662-36778-2
Cat. No.: H46-2/04-349E

Help on accessing alternative formats, such as Portable Document Format (PDF), Microsoft Word and PowerPoint (PPT) files, can be obtained in the alternate format help section.

---

The product label is your first source of information about the hazards of a product and how to protect yourself. Controlled (hazardous) products from suppliers must display a WHMIS label with a hatched border and the following seven categories of information. The product label is your first source of information about the hazards of a product and how to protect yourself. Controlled (hazardous) products from suppliers must display a WHMIS label with a hatched border and the following seven categories of information.

What to look for...

When reading a supplier label, look for consistency between the information elements. Do the hazard symbols match the risk phrases, and the information on the MSDS? Are the precautions and first aid measures consistent with the hazards? If you have questions, contact the supplier.

Supplier labels must be bilingual (English/French), easy to read, and durable. If the label is lost, damaged, or no longer readable, the product must be relabeled.

1. Product Identifier

The product name exactly as it appears on the container and on the Material Safety Data Sheet

2. Supplier Identifier

The company which made or packaged the product, and is responsible for the label and MSDS information. Contact the supplier for additional information on the product

3. Hazard Symbols

One or more WHMIS symbols,depending on the WHMIS classification of the product

4. Risk Phrases

Brief statements of major hazards,based on the WHMIS classification of the product

5. Precautionary Measures

Brief descriptions of essential precautions, specific protective equipment,and emergency measures

6. First Aid Measures

Immediate steps to be taken by trained first aiders at the scene of an incident

7. MSDS Reference

Labels provide key information to alert you about critical hazards, precautions and first aid measures. The MSDS contains much more information on the safe use of the product. Always read the MSDS before working with a hazardous product.

Special Provisions

1. Controlled products may be imported without a supplier label. The importer or purchaser must provide the required label information.
   
   
2. Certain categories of controlled products (containers under 100 mL, laboratory products, and laboratory samples)may legally show less (or a variation from the) information than indicated above.

Always read the MSDS before working with a hazardous product.

For additional information and resources visit www.whmis.gc.ca and/or www.ccohs.ca