In terms of WHMIS classifications, a product which is corrosive would be classified as Class E and an irritant would be classified as D2B Skin/Eye Irritation.
The main distinction between corrosion and irritation is that irritation is more of a physiological effect whereas corrosion is more of a chemical reaction to the biological tissue. Although irritation and corrosion are distinguishable, in many cases, substances can display both characteristics depending on the duration and concentration of the exposure. The effects of irritation are typically considered to be reversible in comparison to corrosive substances.
The following are definitions from the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS):
- “Skin corrosion”: the production of irreversible damage to the skin; namely visible necrosis through the epidermis and into the dermis, following the application of a test substance for up to 4 hours
- “Skin irritation”: the production of reversible damage to the skin following the application of a test substance for up to 4 hours
Materials that fall within the criteria for corrosivity under WHMIS regulations will also meet the criteria for skin and eye irritation. Classifying these substances into both Class D2B and E would be unnecessary and may cause confusion to users and workers. Therefore, according to the Controlled Product Regulations, the majority of materials meeting the criteria for Class E need not be classified as Class D2B as well.
The main distinction between corrosion and irritation is that irritation is more of a physiological effect whereas corrosion is more of a chemical reaction to the biological tissue. Although irritation and corrosion are distinguishable, in many cases, substances can display both characteristics depending on the duration and concentration of the exposure. The effects of irritation are typically considered to be reversible in comparison to corrosive substances.
The following are definitions from the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS):
- “Skin corrosion”: the production of irreversible damage to the skin; namely visible necrosis through the epidermis and into the dermis, following the application of a test substance for up to 4 hours
- “Skin irritation”: the production of reversible damage to the skin following the application of a test substance for up to 4 hours
Materials that fall within the criteria for corrosivity under WHMIS regulations will also meet the criteria for skin and eye irritation. Classifying these substances into both Class D2B and E would be unnecessary and may cause confusion to users and workers. Therefore, according to the Controlled Product Regulations, the majority of materials meeting the criteria for Class E need not be classified as Class D2B as well.
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