As we focus our efforts on WHMIS this month, a question that frequently is asked is what is a consumer chemical product and do WHMIS regulations apply to consumer products? This article will discuss what a consumer product is, what regulations apply, and outline the considerations associated with the use of consumer products.
What is a consumer product? Is it anything bought in a store? The answer may surprise you. Consumer
products are products, including their components, parts, or accessories, that may reasonably be expected to be obtained by an individual to be used for domestic and recreational purposes. Examples of consumer products are cleaners, paints, lubricants, and adhesives. An important item to note is the intended use of the product is for home or recreational use, not for use in the workplace.
Generally speaking, WHMIS regulations do not apply to consumer products. However, the Consumer Product Safety Act and regulations outline the requirements for consumer products. The Consumer Product Safety Act considers the ingredients, components, and parts, and clearly outlines the risks and hazards associated with the product. It also considers the size and volume of a product, which is where the WHMIS regulations and the Consumer Product Safety Act differ.
Under the Consumer Product Safety Act, Consumer products are classified into 5 main hazard classes: toxic products, corrosive products, flammable products, quick skin-bonding adhesives, and pressurized
containers. Similar to WHMIS regulations, consumer products are labeled to show the hazards associated with the product and the container in which the product is distributed. For example, a triangular-shaped warning label indicates the container is under pressure, whereas an octagon label represents the hazard associated with the chemical itself.
It is important to remember consumer products come with the assumption that they will be used infrequently and for short periods of time. If the consumer product is to be used often and for a longer length of time, the risks associated with the consumer product will increase as employees are at a greater risk of occupational injury or illness. Additionally, there are still risks associated with consumer products, their smaller distribution size does not impact a consumer product’s hazards, like bleach or ammonia. Bleach and ammonia are still corrosive and can damage the skin, eyes, and lungs.
Make sure if you are using consumer products in your workplace, that employees are aware of the risks
associated with the specific products being used.