A Guide to WHMIS
Workplace injuries happen all the time. But most of them can be avoided with the right training and education. One form of training that can help employees avoid potential injuries at work is by undergoing WHMIS training.
WHMIS stands for Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System. This involves all hazardous materials including chemicals and gases found in any workplace. This system is put in place for the prevention of injury and the protection of the environment. The way that people handling hazardous chemicals are kept safe is by teaching them how to handle and dispose of dangerous materials and how to read safety labels.
It is important for workers to get WHMIS training because this is the one that can help protect their health and the health of the workplace. Different kinds of chemicals are used in workplaces. And these chemicals have different side effects. Since different chemicals cause different damages, their handling requirements are also different. WHMIS teaches employees how to handle these materials but this is not the only thing involved here. Employees are educated in different situations including how to avoid contact with chemicals but also how to deal with exposure to toxic chemicals that can cause respiratory and other health problems. Dealing with materials that have to be cleaned and disposed of in specific ways it also included. These regulations can help employees avoid risks and prepare for potentially dangerous situations.
The basics across all WHMIS regulations remain the same. It involves labelling dangerous materials. There is a regulation of continuous training on labels and potential hazards. The maintenance of material safety data sheets or MSDS is part of the WHMIS.
Employees need to have training if the workplace contains or use products that have WHMIS symbols and label. Employees should be trained by their employers under federal regulations. Training is only for employees that are exposed to these materials and who are likely to come in contact with them. There is no need to undergo training if an employees work does not involve these hazards. Even new employees have to be trained despite already having a WHMIS training. This is because training is specific to the workplace.
There is general training and site-specific training in a WHMIS training. In general training, employees are educated on labeling and symbols on hazardous materials and substances. Reading labels is important for employees.
You can also take a whmis training online. This training keeps employees updated on WHMIS regulations and labels. Site-specific training is not covered online.
Site-specific training involves the specific workplace of an employee. It describes what substances are being used and how to handle them safely. Disposing of chemicals and how to deal with emergency situations are also taught.
WHMIS training makes your employees become safe and well prepared for this tasks.