1985

Tripartite Consultation
Thus began a consultative process with representatives from government, industry and labour that culminated in the report of the Project Steering Committee on a Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System in April 1985.

1987

Creation of WHMIS
The Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) is created in June, upholding the right of workers and the general public to be informed about hazardous product ingredients.

1987

Birth of the Commission
An agency without precedent anywhere in the world, HMIRC is created in October to balance the information needs of workers with the right of companies within Canada's chemical industry to protect their trade secrets.

1988

Appointment of first Council of Governors
Members of the Council of Governors are appointed.

1988

Appointment of first President
Mr. Claude St. Pierre is appointed President of the Hazardous Materials Information Review Commission.

1988

Implementation of WHMIS
WHMIS is implemented through a series of complementary federal, provincial and territorial legislation that becomes effective October 31, 1988.

1988

Establishment of regulations
Regulatory framework and fee structure are set out in October 1988.

1988

The Communications section undertakes a major program to inform potential clients about the newly created role of HMIRC by advertisements in national and local newspapers and mailings to chemical suppliers.