It is a comprehensive plan for providing information on the safe use of hazardous materials used in Canadian workplaces. It was created in response to the Canadian workers' right to know about the safety and health hazards that may be associated with the materials or chemicals they use at work. Exposure to hazardous materials can cause or contribute to many serious health effects such as effects on the nervous system, kidney or lung damage, sterility, cancer, burns and rashes.
Some hazardous materials are safety hazards and can cause fires or explosions.
These apply to all of Canada. Suppliers, employers and workers all have specified responsibilities in the Hazardous Products Act. Canadian suppliers are those who sell or import products. The purpose of the labels is to clearly identify the contents of the hazardous material, and the MSDS is to explain what those hazards are. Employers are required to establish education and training programs for workers exposed to hazardous products in the workplace.