What is WHMIS?
WHMIS is a Canadian regulation that was developed to protect workers who come into contact or may come into contact with controlled products at work.  WHMIS stands for Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System. WHMIS was designed to ensure the safety of employers and employees while at the workplace.

There are 3 main elements to WHMIS:

1. Labeling of containers
2. Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDSs)
3. Worker education and training programs

Who needs WHMIS training?
All employees who are exposed or likely to be exposed to a hazardous material or controlled product at the workplace.

Who is responsible for WHMIS training and WHMIS education?
The employer is responsible for ensuring that his or her staff are properly trained and know how to work safely with the controlled products in their workplace.

How often do I need WHMIS training?
Legally, every company's WHMIS program be reviewed at least annually or more frequently if required by a change in work conditions or available hazard information. It is also recommended that the WHMIS training be completed annually.

What needs to be included in a WHMIS training program?
There are two areas of WHMIS training.

1. General training: General training will teach your employees about the regulations, symbols, labels, how to identify a controlled product, how to read an MSDS etc.

2. Site-specific training: Site-specific training teaches employees how to use WHMIS to work safely with the controlled products that they use.