Digital certificates are here! In this update, we’re introducing digital signatures and QR code records of training to your certifications, as well as a certificate validation tool. With the two new certificate features, you can easily use your phone, tablet or computer to show a signed certificate verifying proof of competency. You now have the… Read more »
Worksite’s Required Postings Checklist
Worksite’s team of consultants has compiled a list of required and recommended postings for a health and safety board in Ontario. While this list is fairly exhaustive, you should always remember that each workplace is unique, and the hazards faced in different environments can require the employer to provide different types of postings. Let us… Read more »
What is a Health and Safety Policy?
For provincially regulated workplaces in Ontario, a written health and safety policy must be developed if you regularly employ six (6) or more workers. The policy must be reviewed annually and should be dated and signed by the highest level of management at the workplace. An effective health and safety policy establishes the employer’s intention… Read more »
Working At Heights: What You Need To Know About Training and Certification
When looking for Working At Heights training, you need to know that you will receive certified training that will permit you to work from heights throughout Ontario. Working At Heights training ensures that workers are qualified to perform their job safely. Do I Need Working At Heights Training In Ontario? Construction projects in Ontario… Read more »
What is a Lifeline?
Lifelines are an essential component in some fall protection systems. They consist of a length of synthetic fibre or steel wire rope. You attach your lifeline to an independent point of anchorage on the work surface to ensure stability at the job site. A lifeline can be horizontal or vertical. Horizontal Lifelines A horizontal lifeline… Read more »
The Hierarchy of Hazard Controls
Controlling occupational hazards and reducing risk of injuries requires an understanding and application of the hierarchy of controls. The hierarchy of controls focuses on the most effective fall protection system at any given worksite. There are five levels of hazard controls ranging from highest and most effective to lowest priority and least effective in terms… Read more »
Types of Full-Body Harnesses
A CSA (Canadian Standards Association) approved full-body harness is required in order to safely work at heights, but which harness is right for the job can vary. There are five major class types of full-body harnesses you can use, each designed for a specific task. To find out which class your full-body harness belongs to,… Read more »
Choosing Safe Anchor Points
When attaching a lanyard or lifeline to a surface at heights, you use what is known as an anchor. The structure you are connecting the anchor to is known as an anchorage. Lastly, the anchor point (also known as a tie-off point) is the point where your anchor is temporarily or permanently attached securely to… Read more »
Why is there no WHMIS 2021?
Canada developed the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) in 1988 based on the Controlled Products Regulations (CPR) in the Hazardous Products Act (HPA). WHMIS 1988 became the national hazard communication standard in Canada until the WHMIS update in February 2015. WHMIS 2015 was updated to incorporate the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling… Read more »
The Three Ways SDS Sheets Keep You Safe
Safety Data Sheets are an invaluable part of keeping your workplace safe. WHMIS regulations insist upon all workplaces having SDS sheets. There are three key ways SDS sheets keep you safe in the workplace each day. Firstly, SDS sheets keep you safe through their sheer level of detail. The information present allows you to fully… Read more »
Pictograms: Your Guide to the WHMIS Symbols
When you’re on the job, you’ll work with a variety of different products. Some of these products are potentially harmful. That’s why WHMIS has a series of symbols called Pictograms designed to communicate any potential dangers certain products might have. There are 10 Pictograms as of WHMIS 2015. WHMIS only had eight pictograms upon its… Read more »
WHMIS Requirements for Employers
Safety is the paramount concern with WHMIS. Once you have completed your training, you know your workplace responsibilities. You may still be wondering what your employer must do to keep you safe. Your employer must follow several guidelines to ensure workplace safety: All controlled products must be labeled appropriately before using, storing, handling, or disposing of those… Read more »
The Two Hazard Groups And How They Get Into Your Body
There are two types of hazards: physical hazards and health hazards. Physical hazards will result in immediate injury to the body. The effects of health hazards may be felt within moments or over a prolonged period from initial exposure and are primarily concerned with illness or disease. There are four ways hazardous materials can enter… Read more »
WHMIS Certificates: What You Need To Know
After earning their WHMIS certificate, employees often wonder under what circumstances they will have to redo their certification. Will the training be valid at another job? Across Canada? Will it expire? Your WHMIS certification is valid even if you switch workplaces. You can work without re-training if you have your WHMIS certificate for the current… Read more »
Who is considered a competent person?
Who is considered a Competent Person for Practical Training? There are a number of courses available online that state there is a “practical” portion to be completed alongside a competent person once the theory component is complete. A competent person is someone who is knowledgable about, and comfortable performing, the operations on equipment and machinery… Read more »