PPE & WHMIS - Safety First Symbols

There are some basic PPE and WHMIS knowledge that is important for your introduction to safety. PPE is the last resort to control hazards. WHMIS symbols provide a front line warning for possible chemical hazards. Please be aware that not all agricultural chemicals fall under the WHMIS legislation and may differ in warnings. Treat all chemical with great caution.

PPE

PPE - Personal Protective Equipment

Symbols	Protects	Controls
	Eyes	Eye injury
	Head	Head Injury Sun Exposure
	Hands	Skin abrasions Chemical corrosives
	Feet	Toe Crushing Pointed object impalement Grip to ground
	Respiratory System	Inhalation of toxic chemicals and biohazards
	Respiratory System	Inhalation of dust
	Ears	Decreases loud noise levels
	Whole Body	Increase visibility to equipment and other workers
	Whole Body	Fall prevention

WHMIS

There are ten WHMIS pictograms. Each pictogram is associated with a specific hazard classification.

Flammable

Oxidizing

Corrosive

May burn if exposed to ignition sources; may give off flammable gases

May burn without air; may intensify fire in combustible materials

May cause skin burns and/or permanent eye damage

Harmful

Health Hazard

Toxic

May cause redness and/or rashes

May cause serious health problems after short or long term exposure

Small amounts with short exposures may threaten life

Compressed Gas

Explosive

Environmental Hazard

Released gases may be very cold; container may explode if heated

May explode if exposed to fire, heat, shock, or friction

Toxic to aquatic organisms; may cause lasting damage to the environment

Biohazard

Once a biological hazard is identified by experts, exposure to that biohazard is highly regulated. It is unlikely you will come into contact with a labelled biohazard.