Who is responsible for providing employees with WHMIS training?

The employer is responsible for providing employees with WHMIS (Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System) training because it is a fundamental aspect of ensuring workplace safety. Employers are mandated by law to educate their employees about hazardous materials they may encounter while working, including how to read labels, understand safety data sheets (SDS), and follow safe handling practices. This obligation ensures that all workers are informed about the potential hazards associated with materials in the workplace, thereby promoting a safe and healthy work environment.

While workers have a role in participating in the training and applying what they learn, the initial responsibility to organize and deliver this training lies with the employer. The Joint Health and Safety Committee may contribute to the development and implementation of safety protocols, and the government sets the regulations and guidelines for WHMIS, but the primary accountability for training employees on WHMIS falls on the employer.