Module 2.4: Education and Training

When it comes to WHMIS, there is a difference between education and training.

• Education refers to general or portable information, such as how WHMIS works and the hazards of the products. For example, you will learn about the hazard classes (e.g., why a product is called a corrosive, and what information you can find on labels and safety data sheets (SDSs)).

• Training refers to the site- and job-specific information that will cover your workplace's procedures for storage, handling, use, disposal, emergencies, spills, and what to do in other situations.

In Canada, any workplace that uses or stores hazardous products is required to have a WHMIS program in place. Workers must receive education and training to recognize hazards and know how to handle hazardous products safely.

Anyone who works with or may be exposed to hazardous products during their job must be informed about the associated hazards. This includes information provided by the supplier as well as any additional details the employer has about the product’s safe use, storage, and handling.

For example, education and training must be given to workers who:

• Could be exposed to hazardous products during regular tasks, maintenance, or emergencies.

• Use, store, handle, or dispose of hazardous products.

• Supervise or oversee others who may be exposed or handle hazardous products.

• Take part in emergency response procedures.

Below is an general information on WHMIS to help explain the topics covered.