SDS Format under Canada WHMIS

A practical overview of the 16-section safety data sheet and bilingual hazard communication requirements under Canada's WHMIS framework.

Practical requirements

• Use the prescribed 16-section sequence and do not omit required headings.
• Base classification and exposure controls on reliable, product-specific information.
• Keep supplier details, emergency contact, SDS classification and label elements consistent.

Application to SDS preparation

Confirm the destination market, product type, intended use, composition and supply-chain role before finalising classification, the 16-section content, label elements, language and emergency contact details. When a law or standard changes, assess the impact on existing SDSs and labels and update controlled documents where necessary.

This article provides general compliance information. Product-specific decisions should be based on the latest official rules and the facts of the project.