WHMIS Training – What it is and why you need it

What is WHMIS?

You may be wondering, what is WHMIS and why do you need to get it? In this article, we will discuss the reasons you need a WHMIS certificate, and how it can help you in your chosen field. 

WHMIS training is legally required for everyone in Canada who works with or may encounter hazardous materials at work. In Ontario, WHMIS legislation applies to all workplaces except farms. There are many ways to receive training, the goal always remains the same; ensure that workers receive, understand, and use the necessary information to stay safe while working with hazardous products in the workplace.

WHMIS safeguards the health of the workers who engage with or alongside hazardous products. It also safeguards the health of both the workplace and it’s employees. 

Any given workplace incorporates a quantity of interest in chemicals and substances. All of them have their very own set of adverse effects. They will need their own unique handling requirements to prevent problems. However, these dangerous substances are used among workers, which may cause major respiratory and other health problems. Others are also in control of materials that have got to be cleaned and disposed of in certain ways.

We interviewed Zaid Von Velten, an Environmental, Health and Safety professional to get his take on WHMIS training. 

This is what he had to say:

How can knowing WHMIS help you in daily life?

“Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) is an essential tool to protect the health and safety of our workers in the workplace. Most of our workers handle or work near hazardous chemicals on the daily basis. Thus, having knowledge of WHMIS is a crucial factor in enabling you to handle chemicals safely.”

Check Zaid out on LinkedIn

It also gives those trained in it an understanding of how to avoid physical injury or exposure by being aware of household appliances that could cause harm, e.g. bleach. 

How does WHMIS training benefit businesses?

“By having knowledgeable and trained workers in the workplace, workers will less likely to have an accident while handling or working near hazardous materials.”

Employers must ensure that their employees are trained on hazardous products before they use them. The type and amount of training are dependent on whether a product is new to the workplace and/or newly classified as a hazardous product. By having your employees WHMIS certified you reduce your business’s liability if something should happen.

Should you include a WHMIS certification on your resume?

“Yes, It’s an important skill for most employers.”

Any certification no matter how small is always good to add to your resume as it shows your knowledge.

Does having a WHMIS certificate boost your employability?

“Yes, in some cases. Certain employers would have WHMIS knowledge and experience as a must in their job posting.”

 In this case, it is especially important to add WHMIS certifications to resumes when applying to jobs as employers are more likely to hire someone who is already certified rather than paying for that employee to take a WHMIS course.

What sort of workplaces require WHMIS training?

“Majority of Canadian workplaces require WHMIS training.”

If a workplace has hazardous materials on-site, or has you handling them they are required to offer WHMIS or at least a form of Safety training.

Check out Baig Security’s own WHMIS training course at https://themafirst.wordpress.com/courses/