JHSC Training for Ontario Workplaces

In Ontario, Canada, workplaces of all sizes and industries are subject to the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA), which sets out specific requirements for maintaining a safe work environment. Joint Health and Safety Committee (JHSC) training is key to supporting these obligations, ensuring workers and employers learn how to work together to address hazards and prevent accidents and injuries.

Ontario’s General Requirements for JHSCs

Under the OHSA, most Ontario workplaces with 20 or more regularly employed workers must have a JHSC made up of at least one worker and one employer member. Smaller workplaces may require a health and safety representative, and even when not legally required, creating a JHSC can significantly improve safety culture and team member engagement.

Is JHSC Training Mandatory?

If a workplace is legally required to establish a JHSC, at least one worker and one employer representative must be certified. To be certified, a person must complete the CPO (Chief Prevention Officer) – approved Parts 1 and 2 of mandatory training: Basic Certification and Workplace-Specific Hazard Training. A trained JHSC representative is prepared to:

• Identify and assess hazards before they cause harm
• Promote safe work practices and awareness
• Address safety concerns raised by workers
• Provide practical recommendations for hazard control
• Support continuous improvement in workplace health and safety

CPO-Approved JHSC Certification Training Breakdown

Ontario mandates a two-part training program for JHSC members:

• Part 1 is a foundational course that covers the roles and responsibilities of JHSC members, workplace hazard recognition, understanding the OHSA and workers’ rights, and conducting workplace inspections and accident investigations.
• Part 2 is focused on workplace-specific hazard training and developing safety control measures and recommendations.

After completing both parts, members receive their JHSC Certification, which is valid for three years. To maintain certification, refresher training is required every three years.