WHMIS 2016 Training?

A common WHMIS-related question that’s often asked since January of this year is, “Is there such thing as WHMIS 2016 and WHMIS 2016 training”?

It’s understandable why many would ask this question since there was a WHMIS 2015 as well as WHMIS 2015 training.

The simple answer to the question is, no. There have been no updates to WHMIS in 2016. Therefore, there is no WHMIS 2016 and “WHMIS 2016 Training”.

The reason WHMIS is now often referred to as WHMIS 2015 was that, in February of 2015, Canada aligned WHMIS with the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals.

Immediately following the adoption of the GHS, the newly updated WHMIS was referred to as “WHMIS 2015” and the old WHMIS as “WHMIS 1988.”

A distinction between the two was required since significant changes have been made with the way that chemicals were classified and labeled.

For instance, WHMIS 2015 introduced new symbols, now referred to as pictograms, as well as new labels.

Does all of this mean that you or your worker don’t need WHMIS training in 2016? Not necessarily.

Updated WHMIS Training in 2016

If you or your workers have not taken WHMIS training yet that includes that new WHMIS 2015 elements, then you need to update your training. The reason for this is because there’s a high probability that you or your workers will encounter chemicals that display WHMIS 2015 elements in your workplace.

If you or your employees have received updated WHMIS 2015 training, then you many not need to update it in 2016. This is, however, dependent on what’s required in your particular workplace.

If you’re a worker that’s exposed to chemicals in your workplace, be sure to ask your supervisor if you need WHMIS training, if you haven’t already.

WHMIS Training Online

Eversafe Media’s Online WHMIS Training for Workers course covers both WHMIS 1988 and WHMIS 2015 elements. Training on both systems is required throughout the transition period that will last until November 2018. Training on only one of the systems will not be adequate since workers will most likely encounter elements from both systems until the end of the transition.

Individual learners wishing to get certified can do so in about 60 minutes using our simple-to-use online WHMIS Training.

Employers wanting to train their workers quickly and hassle-free at an affordable price can get started in less than five minutes.