Ask The Expert: Do Workers Exposed to Chemicals Need Both WHMIS & TDG Training?

QUESTION

Our janitorial company buys cleaning chemical products that are regulated under both WHMIS and Transportation of Dangerous Goods (TDG) regulations. Which training do our workers need’TDG, WHMIS or both’

 

ANSWER

Just WHMIS as long as the workers aren’t involved in transporting those products.

 

EXPLANATION

TDG is designed to ensure the safe transport of hazardous products. WHMIS is designed to ensure their safe use once they get to the workplace. If your workers are involved in just storing, handling and using the products at the workplace, they only need WHMIS training. TDG is a kind of WHMIS on wheels that kicks in when and if you transport the products to or from your site.

Bottom Line: As long as you meet the WHMIS training requirements you can leave the TDG training concerns to the shippers and consignors.