The Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) is a national system that provides information on hazardous materials used in workplaces across Canada. This system is designed to ensure that workers are informed about the hazardous materials they may encounter while working, and to ensure that they have the necessary training and education to protect themselves and their coworkers from potential hazards. In this article, we will discuss the legal requirements for WHMIS training in Canada.
WHMIS is regulated by the federal government through the Hazardous Products Act (HPA) and the Controlled Products Regulations (CPR). These regulations require that employers ensure that all workers who handle or are exposed to hazardous materials receive training on WHMIS. This includes employees who work with or around hazardous materials, as well as managers and supervisors who are responsible for the safety of workers.
What is WHMIS?
WHMIS is a national system that regulates the handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous materials in the workplace. It is designed to ensure that workers are adequately informed about the hazards associated with these materials and the appropriate safety measures to take when handling them. WHMIS is administered by the federal government in Canada and is based on the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS). WHMIS uses a standardised system of labelling, safety data sheets (SDS), and worker education to ensure that workers are equipped to handle hazardous materials safely. Whmis certification is necessary to store hazardous materials in the workplace.
Legal requirements for WHMIS training
The legal requirements for WHMIS training are outlined in the OHS regulations in Canada. The specific requirements vary by jurisdiction, but the general principles are consistent across the country. The following are some of the key legal requirements for WHMIS training:
Identifying and labelling hazardous materials
The first step in complying with WHMIS regulations is to identify all hazardous materials used in the workplace. This includes chemicals, biological materials, and other hazardous substances. Once these materials have been identified, they must be labelled according to WHMIS requirements.
WHMIS labels must include specific information about the hazardous material, including the product name, the supplier’s name and address, the hazard class and associated pictograms, and any relevant precautionary statements. Labels must also include information about the product’s safe handling, storage, and disposal.
Preparing and Providing Safety Data Sheets (SDSs) for Hazardous Materials
In addition to labelling hazardous materials, employers must also provide Safety Data Sheets (SDSs) for each hazardous material. SDSs provide detailed information about the properties of the material, as well as its potential health effects and safety hazards.
SDSs must be readily accessible to employees, either in paper or electronic format. Employers must ensure that employees are aware of the location of SDSs and are trained on how to read and interpret them.
Providing WHMIS Training to Employees
The third key element of WHMIS compliance is providing training to employees on the hazards associated with the materials they work with or may be exposed to. Employers must ensure that all employees who work with or around hazardous materials receive WHMIS training before they begin work.
WHMIS training should cover a range of topics, including the hazards associated with different materials, the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and emergency procedures in the event of a spill or other hazardous situation. Training should also cover the importance of reading and understanding SDSs and WHMIS labels.
Employers have a legal obligation to ensure that workers are adequately trained to work safely with hazardous materials. This training must be provided before workers are exposed to hazardous materials and must be updated as necessary. Employers must ensure that workers understand the hazards associated with the materials they are working with, the appropriate safety measures to take, and the procedures for responding to an emergency.
What Must the Training Cover?
WHMIS training must cover a variety of topics, including the following:
The hazards associated with the materials being used, handled, or stored in the workplace.
The proper handling and use of these materials, including how to read and understand safety data sheets (SDS) and labels.
Emergency procedures in case of accidental exposure or release of the hazardous materials.
The proper storage and disposal of the materials.
The importance of personal protective equipment (PPE) and how to use it properly.
Who Must Be Trained?
All workers who handle, store, or come into contact with hazardous materials in the workplace must be trained in WHMIS. This includes full-time and part-time employees, temporary workers, and contractors. Workers who work with hazardous materials only occasionally, such as office workers who handle cleaning supplies, must also receive WHMIS training.
Employers are responsible for ensuring that all workers receive the necessary training. This includes providing training to new hires before they start working with hazardous materials, as well as ensuring that all workers receive refresher training at least once every three years.
WHMIS training must be delivered in a manner that workers can understand
Employers must ensure that WHMIS training is delivered in a manner that workers can understand. This may include providing training in the worker’s first language or using visual aids to reinforce key points. Employers must also ensure that workers have an opportunity to ask questions and clarify any points they do not understand.
Employers must keep records of employee training, including the date of the training, the topics covered, and the names of the employees who received training.
Updating WHMIS Training When New Hazards or Materials are Introduced
Employers must ensure that WHMIS training is updated as necessary to reflect changes in the workplace or changes to the hazards associated with particular materials. For example, if a new hazardous material is introduced into the workplace, workers must be trained on the hazards associated with that material.
Employers must ensure that their WHMIS training is updated whenever new hazards or materials are introduced into the workplace. This may include new chemicals, equipment, or processes that introduce new hazards.
Employers must ensure that employees are informed of these new hazards and receive appropriate training on how to work safely with the new materials or equipment.
Employers must provide additional training as necessary
Employers must provide additional training as necessary to ensure that workers are adequately prepared to work with hazardous materials. This may include refresher training, specialised training for new recruits. Employers are required to provide WHMIS training to their workers before they begin working with hazardous materials. They must also provide refresher training at least once every three years, or whenever there are changes in the materials being used or in the workplace environment.
Refresher training may be required more frequently in certain situations, such as when new hazards are introduced into the workplace or when workers are reassigned to a new position that involves working with hazardous materials.
Employers must also provide training to workers who are newly assigned to a position that involves working with hazardous materials, or when new hazardous materials are introduced into the workplace.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Employers who fail to comply with WHMIS regulations can face significant penalties, including fines and even criminal charges. The exact penalties vary depending on the nature and severity of the violation.
In addition to the legal consequences, non-compliance with WHMIS regulations can also result in serious damages which can potentially affect you well being.
Summary
In conclusion, WHMIS training is an essential component of workplace safety in Canada. Employers are legally required to provide their workers with adequate training on the use, handling, and storage of hazardous materials, and this training must be provided before workers start handling these materials. The training must cover a variety of topics, including the hazards associated with the materials, the proper handling and use of these materials, emergency procedures, storage and disposal, PPE, and worker rights and responsibilities. Employers must also provide refresher training at least once every three years, or whenever there are changes in the materials being used or in the workplace environment. By providing workers with the necessary training, employers can help ensure the safety of their workers and prevent accidents and injuries in the workplace.
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