WHMIS

Overview

WHMIS training educates workers how to properly and safely handle, store, and respond to hazardous materials in the workplace. This course aligns with Canadian safety regulations and is required by many employers across various industries like construction, manufacturing, healthcare, and warehousing.

Participants are trained to recognize hazard symbols, read Safety Data Sheets (SDS), and follow proper protocols to minimize risk and avoid injuries. This course supports workplace safety, regulatory compliance, and employee awareness, making it a core requirement for many job roles.

Upcoming Course Start Dates

Benefits of taking this course: 

  • Increase personal safety and protection in the workplace
  • Prevent illness and accidents from chemical exposure
  • Understand worker rights and responsibilities about hazardous substances in the workplace
  • Boost confidence at work leading to higher productivity
  • Become more employable and competitive in the job market

Course content: 

  • WHMIS legislation and system overview
  • Hazard classes (classification, groups, categories)
  • WHMIS symbols and SDS labels
  • Proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
  • Emergency preparedness in case of chemical leaks, spills or exposure

Change, Refund, and Return Policy: 

  • Learners may request one-time course rescheduling or transfer to another available session. The request must be made at least three (3) business days prior to course start date. Transfers are subject to seat availability.
  • Full refunds will be provided if the request to cancel has been received more than a week (7 days) before the course start date or Western Workforce Skills Training Centre cancels or reschedules the course.
  • No refund will be issued if a registered participant is late, absent, or cancelled within the day.
Duration 

5 hours 

Course Fee

$25 + GST

Language

English

Class Location

Scott Road or Abbotsford Campus; In-person or online.

Certificate

Issued upon completion of the course. Certificate has no expiration date.

Ready to Get Certified?

Take the first step toward increasing your employability and meeting workplace requirements with recognized certification. Join our practical training and gain the skills employers across British Columbia value.

Frequently Asked Questions 

A: Yes. Updates to the Hazardous Products Act and regulations came into force on December 15, 2022, and were fully in place on December 15, 2025. The changes include:

  • Improved clarity and precision for certain provisions
  • New information elements required on safety data sheets
  • Adoption of a new physical hazard class (Chemicals Under Pressure)
  • Adoption of a new hazard category for non-flammable aerosols and new subcategories for flammable gases

A: Anyone who works with or may be exposed to hazardous materials in the workplace is required to have WHMIS training.

A: Yes, it is legally required under Canadian law for all employees handling, using, or storing hazardous products.

A: While regulations do not specify an expiry date, most employers require retraining annually or every three years, with many providers recommending yearly refreshers to maintain compliance.

A: WHMIS applies to many industries, including construction, healthcare, manufacturing, and warehousing.