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