WHMIS has changed and so has WHMIS training! As of February 2015, the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) of classification and labeling of chemicals in force in Canada. WHMIS 2015 is the term used to describe the new amendments to the current regulations which align the previous WHMIS with the internationally recognized GHS. This means that there will be some changes to the hazard pictograms, labels and Material Safety Data Sheets (now Safety Data Sheets) that you will encounter day-to-day.
We are currently in a transition period for the new system, this means that you will continue to see the familiar WHMIS labels on some products BUT you will begin to see the GHS labels on others. Suppliers and distributors are obligated to follow EITHER the old WHMIS regulations OR the new WHMIS 2015 regulations, but never a combination of the two.
Who should complete this training?
Any person who works with or who may be exposed in the course of their work to a hazardous product (i.e. chemical), is legally required to complete Carleton’s WHMIS training course.
This includes anyone who uses, handles, stores, or disposes of hazardous products (i.e. chemicals), directly supervises another person performing these tasks, works in the vicinity of other’s performing these tasks, or who may become exposed during maintenance operations of emergency situations (e.g. spills).
How do I access this training?
WHMIS training is available online.
- Visit Brightspace
- Sign in using your MC1 credentials.
- Select the correct course in “My Courses”. If the course is not listed in “My courses”, search for the training using the term “WORKPLACE HAZARDOUS MATERIALS INFORMATION SYSTEM” through the Discover link in the navigation bar and self register by following the on-screen instructions.
If you require assistance with the training, contact us at ehs@carleton.ca.
WHMIS training is also included in the Young Worker Health & Safety Awareness in-class sessions offered once before summer term.