aidemia--modules-lessonplan_request	Titles of parts of the lesson must be formatted as headings
What to create	Lesson plan
Which subject	Science
What topic	Whmi
What length (min)	30
What age group	Doesn't matter
Include homework
Include images descriptions
Any other preferences

Science Lesson Plan: WHMIS (Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System)

Duration

30 Minutes

Grade Level

Doesn't Matter

Objective

By the end of this lesson, students will understand the components of WHMIS and the importance of workplace safety concerning hazardous materials.

Materials Needed

• WHMIS symbols handout
• Projector and screen
• Whiteboard and markers
• Case studies/examples of WHMIS application
• Safety data sheets (SDS) examples

Lesson Outline

Introduction (5 Minutes)

• Welcome students and introduce the topic.

  • Explain that today's lesson will cover WHMIS – the system used across Canada to provide information about hazardous materials in the workplace.

• Ask students if they have heard of WHMIS before and encourage a brief discussion about their understanding or experiences related to hazardous materials.

Explanation of WHMIS (10 Minutes)

• What is WHMIS?

  • Define WHMIS as the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System.
  • Highlight that it is Canada’s national communication standard for hazardous workplace materials.

• Components of WHMIS:

  • WHMIS Symbols:

    • Display a chart of WHMIS symbols on the projector.
    • Explain the meaning of each symbol (e.g., biohazardous, flammable, corrosive).

  • Labels:

    • Discuss the importance of labels on hazardous materials.
    • Identify key components that appear on labels (e.g., product identifier, hazard pictogram, risk phrases, precautionary measures).

  • Safety Data Sheets (SDS):

    • Explain what an SDS is and its significance for workers.
    • Discuss how workers can refer to the SDS for detailed information on handling hazardous substances safely.

Interactive Activity (10 Minutes)

• Group Activity: Symbol Matching

  • Divide students into small groups.
  • Provide each group with a set of WHMIS symbols and descriptions.
  • Challenge groups to match the symbols to their correct description within a set time.

• Debriefing

  • Bring the class back together and discuss the correct matches.
  • Emphasize the importance of recognizing these symbols in a workplace setting.

Case Studies Discussion (5 Minutes)

• Present 1-2 Case Studies:

  • Share examples of incidents where a lack of understanding of WHMIS led to accidents or unsafe working conditions.

• Class Discussion:

  • Discuss what could have been done differently in these cases.
  • Reinforce the importance of WHMIS training and adherence to safety guidelines.

Conclusion (5 Minutes)

• Recap Key Points:

  • Review WHMIS, its symbols, labels, and Safety Data Sheets.

• Importance of Workplace Safety:

  • Discuss why knowledge of WHMIS is essential for safety in the workplace.

• Q&A Session:

  • Open the floor to any questions or comments students may have about WHMIS and workplace safety.

Assessment

• Observe group participation during the activity.
• Evaluate students’ understanding through their responses during discussions and questions at the end of the lesson.

References

• WHMIS Guidelines by Employment and Social Development Canada
• Provincial safety regulations and guidance documents related to WHMIS

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Note: This lesson plan aligns with Canadian safety standards and encourages a proactive approach to workplace safety, ensuring students are informed and equipped to handle hazardous materials responsibly.