Who needs to be trained in WHMIS?

This is a common question asked by those participating in dentistry.

The concern is the exposure of hazardous material to the worker without their understanding of the dangers associated with it.  Therefore, Regulation 860, Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System, is definitive on education of the worker.

Section 6 (1): “An employer shall ensure that a worker who works with or in proximity to a controlled product received from a supplier is informed about all hazard information the employer receives from the supplier concerning the controlled product and all further hazard information of which the employer is or ought to be aware concerning its use, storage and handling.”

Section 7 (1): An employer shall ensure that every worker who works with or in proximity to a controlled product is instructed in;”

• The contents of labels and their purpose and significance
• The contents, purpose and significance of material safety data sheets (MSDSs)
• Procedures for the safe use, storage, handling and disposal of a controlled product
• Procedures for safe use, storage, handling and disposal of a controlled product
• Procedures to be followed when fugitive emissions are present
• Procedures to be followed in case of an emergency involving a controlled product.

Most importantly, training programs have to be effective. Employers are required to ensure that workers are able to use the information from the training program to protect their health and safety. 

The short answer to who needs to be training in WHMIS is  —  Everyone!

And Everyone has to work as a team to ensure the entire workplace remains healthy and safe.

---

Contact Dental Practice Safety at 416.283.7233 or contact us for further information.