To learn more about Chemical Safety or WHMISContact us or visit us online at safetyalliancebc.ca

WHMIS (Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System) was created to protect workers from chemical exposure in the workplace however many of the same chemicals used in the workplace are also found in our homes.

Some common examples include:

• Acetone (nail polish remover)

• Ammonia (window cleaner)

• Caustic soda (used in oven cleaner, tub & tile cleaner, and drain cleaner)

Although these household chemicals do not display

the WHMIS symbols that you may be familiar with,

they are just as dangerous and can cause every bit as

much damage as the ones found in the workplace.

As with most chemical use, the best protection is to use a less hazardous substance or method to get the job done. Some examples of this would be using:

• Vinegar and water to clean windows (as opposed to using ammonia based cleaners)

• Vegetable oil to clean hands after working with paints or greases (instead of solvents)

• Baking soda, salt and water to clean your oven

Chemicals found in the home are normally identifi ed by Consumer Symbols which identify the hazard category.

• The level of risk is identifi ed by warning words or phrases

• Further information on the product can often be found on the container or may be available through the supplier, manufacturer or online

• Make sure that the warning information you fi nd actually applies to the product you have

• Always compare the name of the product and the manufacturer to see if they are the same

• Always follow the instructions for use

Finally, to ensure that you are adequately protected, consider purchasing appropriate Personal Protective

Equipment from a local supplier or hardware store; remember household chemicals can do as much

damage to you as those found in the workplace.

Nitrile gloves, safety glasses or goggles, dust masks and/or a respirator go a long way to protecting you and they

are not that expensive; as an example, consider using safety glasses or goggles and impervious gloves when using

household cleaners. This will provide protection to your skin and eyes.

Some helpful websites are:worksafebc.com

ecocycle.org/hazwaste/ecofriendly-cleaning

ccohs.ca/teach_tools/chem_hazards/consumer_product.html

CORROSIVE FLAMMABLE TOXIC EXPLOSIVE

CONSUMER SYMBOLS

Chemical Safety at HomeSafety Facts:

Workers who attended

Name NameInitial Initial

Key Learning Points

Safety Specifi c Training Requirements

Identifi ed Hazards/concerns

Employee feedback/questions

Name of Supervisor: Date:

Toolbox Talks are short, informal safety meetings led by a supervisor that are focused on a specifi c job-related topic or hazard. This document is meant to support the delivery of a Toolbox Talk and not intended to replace the supervisor-guided discussion.

Toolbox Talk*

Unit A, 43833 Progress Way Chilliwack, BC V2R 0E6

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safetyalliancebc.ca E manufacturing@safetyalliancebc.ca Manufacturing Safety Alliance of BC 2017