WHY IS WHMIS SO IMPORTANT?

Why is WHMIS so Important?

Every year there are approximately 15 work-related injuries per 1,000 employees in Canada.

Although the number has fallen since the 1980s, workplace injury is risky for blue-collar workers. Trades, transport, equipment operation, processing, and manufacturing have a high risk of injury while at work.

Many of these workplace injuries are avoidable, with the right training and education.

WHMIS is one form of training that can help employees avoid potential injuries at work.

But what is WHMIS, what does it involve, and who provides training?

WHMIS stands for Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System. It involves chemicals, gases, and hazardous materials found at any given workplace.

WHMIS is more than avoiding contact between these chemicals and your skin. Some workers are exposed to toxic chemicals that can cause serious respiratory and other health problems. Others may work with materials that have to be cleaned and disposed of in specific ways.

WHMIS helps avoid injury and ensure environmental protection. It keeps the workplace safe for all workers and people handling these materials.

Employers must follow WHMIS regulations and training rules. If not, they put their employees and workplaces at risk.

Not complying with WHMIS training and regulation face consequences. They may receive fines and restrictions on their ability to operate. They may even receive jail time.

Source of Injury or Disease Category

Chemicals and Chemical Products Containers

Furniture and Fixtures

Machinery Parts

Structures and Surfaces Tools,

Instruments, and Equipment Vehicles

Canadian workers compensation boards reported there were 925 Fatalities due to work-related causes in 2019.   

Ensure your staff are trained today