When is WHMIS Training Required?

Across countless workplaces in Canada, employees come into contact with various materials that might seem harmless at first glance, but can be hazardous and require specific handling procedures for worker safety. WHMIS training equips workers with the knowledge and skills to safely work with these materials, minimizing the risk of accidents and injuries.

But when is WHMIS training required in Canada? Is WHMIS training mandatory in Ontario? This blog will answer these key questions and explore the importance of WHMIS compliance for employers and workers alike.

What is WHMIS?

Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) is a standardized system created in 1988, updated in 2015, and implemented across Canada to ensure consistent classification, labelling, and handling of hazardous materials in workplaces. WHMIS education creates a common understanding for employers and workers regarding the potential hazards associated with these materials.

The core components of WHMIS include:

• Hazard Classification: A system for categorizing hazardous products based on their specific physical, chemical, and occupational health hazards.
• Pictograms: Standardized symbols that visually communicate the type of hazard a material presents.
• Labels: Labels on hazardous material containers provide key information, such as the product name, pictograms, hazard statements, and precautionary measures.
• Safety Data Sheet (SDS): Detailed documents outlining the properties, hazards, safe handling procedures, and first-aid measures for specific hazardous materials.

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Who Needs WHMIS Training? 

Complete WHMIS training is mandatory in Canada for any worker who may be exposed to hazardous materials at work. This broad definition of exposure encompasses situations where workers might not directly handle hazardous materials but could still be exposed through inhalation, skin contact, or even being in the same vicinity as these materials.

Even workers in seemingly low-risk environments, like office staff who may occasionally encounter cleaning supplies or printer cartridges, might require WHMIS training depending on the specific materials present.

WHMIS training isn’t mandatory for administrative staff in an office setting with no hazardous materials on-site. However, employers should always err on the side of caution and assess potential exposure risks to determine if WHMIS training is necessary for any of their workers.

Types of Workplaces Where WHMIS Training is Required 

Here are some specific examples where WHMIS training is highly likely to be necessary, according to WHMIS training requirements Ontario:

Manufacturing Facilities 

Production processes often involve hazardous materials like chemicals, solvents, or flammable liquids. Workers involved in the production, handling, or storage of these materials require WHMIS training to understand the associated risks and safe handling procedures.

Construction Sites 

Construction workers can encounter various hazardous materials, such as asbestos, lead-based paint, silica dust, or strong cleaning chemicals. WHMIS training equips them to identify these materials, understand their potential hazards, and handle them safely.

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Auto Repair Shops 

Mechanics and technicians use hazardous materials like gasoline, antifreeze, and various cleaning solvents. Understanding the risks associated with these materials through WHMIS training is essential for their safety and the shop’s safe operation.

Healthcare Facilities 

Hospitals, clinics, and laboratories use hazardous materials like disinfectants, medications, and biological agents. WHMIS training ensures proper handling procedures are followed to protect healthcare and laboratory workers and patients from potential hazards.

Landscaping and Gardening Companies 

Herbicides, pesticides, and fertilizers can be hazardous if not handled correctly. WHMIS training equips landscaping and gardening professionals with the knowledge to safely apply and store these products, minimizing risks to themselves and the environment.

Related: How to Become a Landscaping Contractor in Ontario

Is Site-Specific Training Required for WHMIS? 

WHMIS training typically involves two components: general WHMIS awareness training and site-specific training.

General WHMIS awareness training is mandatory in Ontario for any worker who may be exposed to hazardous materials at work. This training provides a foundational understanding of the WHMIS system, including hazard classifications, pictograms, labels, and safety data sheets (SDS).

On the other hand, workplace-specific training goes into greater detail regarding the hazardous materials present in a business’ work environment, as well as the proper ways to handle those materials. This training ensures workers are familiar with the unique hazards they may encounter on the job, providing them with the knowledge and skills to handle these materials safely.

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What Happens if WHMIS Training Isn’t Provided? 

WHMIS training isn’t just a legal requirement; it’s a crucial element of workplace safety. Failing to provide WHMIS training for workers exposed to hazardous materials can have serious consequences. 

• Fines and Legal Action: Employers who neglect WHMIS training risk fines and legal action from provincial health and safety authorities. 

• Higher Chances of Accidents: Workers become more susceptible to accidents and injuries from unknowingly handling hazardous materials in an unsafe manner. These accidents can lead to pain and suffering for workers, lost productivity, and potential workers’ compensation claims.
• Demotivated Employees: A safe work environment fosters trust and morale among employees. Neglecting WHMIS training sends the message that the employer doesn’t prioritize worker safety, which can lead to decreased employee engagement and a higher likelihood of workers leaving the company. 
• Negative Business Reputation: A workplace accident or legal action for WHMIS noncompliance can damage a company’s reputation, making it hard to recruit skilled workers and affecting customer trust.

Get Complete Protection with Contractors Insurance

By prioritizing all workers exposed to hazardous materials who need WHMIS training, employers can significantly reduce accidents and injuries. 

However, even with proper training, unforeseen accidents can happen—clients can get harmed, properties damaged and lawsuits filed. Contractors Insurance offers comprehensive coverage solutions designed to protect your business in Ontario from these unfortunate events. Our team of experts can help you assess your specific needs and develop a customized insurance plan that provides the protection you need.

Prepare for accidents before they happen—Contact Contractors Insurance and secure your business today!