Many workplaces require some level of WHMIS training. WHMIS stands for Workplace Hazardous Material Information System. WHMIS training courses provide workers, employers, and supervisors with relevant information under WHMIS 1988 and 2015 about the safe handling, storage, and usage of hazardous materials in the workplace. A common WHMIS related question that regularly gets asked is, “Is there such a thing as WHMIS 2018?” It’s understandable why one would ask given that there was, and still is, WHMIS 2015. However the simple answer is no, WHMIS 2015 is still the training required. Training courses often include detailed quizzes used to test your knowledge and understanding of various aspects of the WHMIS training. For more information about WHMIS training or workplace health & safety training, contact the experts at ACUTE now!

Looking For WHMIS 2015 (GHS) Training?

WHMIS Test 2018

A common WHMIS-related question that regularly gets asked around December and January of any given year is, “Is there a such this as WHMIS 2018 Training”? It’s understandable that this would be a question since there certainly was a WHMIS 2015. In fact, WHMIS 2015 is still the most current training. The simple answer is no, there is no WHMIS 2018. There have been no changes to WHMIS since Canada’s integration of GHS into WHMIS in February of 2015. The 2015 updates were named WHMIS 2015 to distinguish it from the original WHMIS 1988. Since there were significant changes to the way chemicals were classified and labelled it was important to differentiate between WHMIS 1988 and WHMIS 2015.

whmistraining2017

Who Needs WHMIS Training?

Anyone who works with or may be potentially exposed to hazardous products in the workplace must complete WHMIS training. However, WHMIS training can be beneficial even if workers think they may not be directly exposed to hazards. Improper training can lead to serious injury and hefty fines. The truth is, most workers need WHMIS training. Learn more here. 

The WHMIS training program is a great option for new hires, Joint Health and Safety Committee members, and any worker who wishes to have a deeper understanding of the new provisions of the Globally Harmonized System as well the requirements mandated by the province’s WHMIS legislation.

Components of GHS and Implementation Dates

Up until May 31, 2017, suppliers (manufacturers and importers) could use WHMIS 1988 or WHMIS 2015. Beginning June 1, 2017, suppliers will change to WHMIS GHS and employees must be trained on the new standard. Between June 1, 2017 – May 31, 2018, distributors and suppliers who import for their own use can continue using WHMIS 1988 or WHMIS 2015 (until May 31, 2018).

With any new system comes changes and amendments. The two key elements of WHMIS GHS are:

• Classification of the hazards of chemicals according to the GHS rules and regulations

• Communication of the hazardous chemicals using both Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and labels

Source: http://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/chemicals/ghs.html


Updated WHMIS Training

There’s a good chance that you or your workers will encounter elements from both WHMIS 1988 and WHMIS 2015 throughout 2018 and beyond. If you’re a worker who hasn’t taken updated WHMIS training that covers WHMIS 2015, you need to do that right away. If you need assistance preparing for the training, check out ACUTE’s WHMIS Test Answers and Quiz here.

If you’re an employer and you haven’t yet provided updated WHMIS training to your workers that covers the WHMIS 2015 elements, then you need to do that right away. Workers should also still be trained on WHMIS 1988 elements, as they may be found in the workplace until late 2018 when the WHMIS 2015 transition comes to an end.

When Will You Need WHMIS Training?

You will need WHMIS training if:

  • You may be exposed to chemicals or a hazardous product during work activities (this includes normal use, maintenance, and emergencies) ✓
  • You use, store, handle, or dispose of hazardous products and materials ✓
  • You supervise workers who may be exposed to, use, store, handle, or dispose of hazardous products ✓
  • You work in emergency response  ✓

The list above is not exhaustive – remember that WHMIS training is mandatory for any workers who work with or who may even be potentially exposed to hazardous products in the workplace.


WHMIS 2015 (GHS) Training Course

ACUTE offers a half-day (4 hours) WHMIS 2015 (GHS) training course. ACUTE’s experienced instructors provide a great classroom learning experience with both face-to-face interactions and detailed handouts and quizzes. Training topics included in ACUTE’s WHMIS GHS training course include:

  • Explanation of employer, supervisor, and worker responsibilities
  • How to recognize, assess, and control risks & evaluate the effectiveness of controls
  • How to understand the WHMIS 1988 – 2015 labels
  • How to understand the WHMIS 1988 – 2015 pictograms (symbols) and understand the hazards that each symbol represents
  • Learn to understand the significance of signal words
  • And more!


WHMIS Training – Want Real Training Today?

Are you ready to really test your WHMIS knowledge? Searching for online WHMIS tests, answers, and hints can only take you so far. Remember, WHMIS training is mandatory for any worker who works with or is potentially exposed to hazardous products in the workplace. If you’re looking for a deeper understanding of the WHMIS system, contact the experienced trainers at ACUTE today!

    Get WHMIS Training From Director-Approved Training Provider ACUTE!

    Online tests and hints are a great way to prepare workers for training and reinforce good safety practices. However, hands-on, practical training is the best way to keep employers and workers safe! ACUTE is dedicated to workplace safety and understands the importance of course and training provider approval. Why get workplace safety training with ACUTE? Here are just some of the benefits of working with ACUTE.

    • Open Door Instructor-Student Partnership – ACUTE’s training services emphasize client participation. Staff foster relationships with clients and serve as a touchstone for advice anytime moving forward.
    • Serving Your Team and Industry – With a vast array of clients in manufacturing, construction, health, academic, and government sectors, ACUTE brings the best safety practices from across the spectrum to your workplace.
    • 100 Years Combined Experience – ACUTE provides comprehensive health and safety training, on-site safety services, and consulting services. With over 100 years of combined experience, our company staff offer more than theoretical or abstract ideas.  ACUTE offers solutions.
    • Track Record of Success – ACUTE is rated 4.9/5 stars on Google reviews, demonstrating a commitment to our clients, quality, and passion for training.

    “We have relied on ACUTE for years to train our staff and
    keep them safe on the job site.”

    – Bob, Millwrighting Company – Read More Testimonials Here!

    Click here to see what training courses we have at ACUTE or contact us today for quality training in your workplace or on-site at ACUTE’s proven training facilities!

    ACUTE is located in Waterloo, Ontario, and services customers from cities such as Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton, Hamilton, Milton, Kitchener, London, Guelph, and others across Ontario.