WHMIS for Aquatic Facility
Aquatic facilities use various products that may pose health and safety risks, particularly for water treatment and maintenance. Their use, handling, and storage require a good understanding of the associated hazards and the preventive measures that must be taken.
The WHMIS for Aquatic Facilities course provides an understanding of the principles of the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) while applying them to the specific realities of aquatic facilities.
The course develops the knowledge needed to identify hazards associated with the products being used, understand available safety information, and adopt safe work practices.
In Quebec, individuals who are exposed or likely to be exposed to a hazardous product must receive the training and information required to perform their work safely. The program implemented by the employer must be adapted to the tasks, workplace, and hazardous products present.
The course covers how to:
Understand the principles and operation of WHMIS;
Recognize hazard classes and pictograms;
Understand the information provided on labels;
Read and use a Safety Data Sheet (SDS);
Identify hazards associated with products used in an aquatic facility;
Understand preventive measures related to the handling, use, and storage of hazardous products;
Understand the precautions and procedures to follow in an emergency;
Promote safe work practices in aquatic environments.
These elements reflect the key information that a WHMIS program must cover, including hazards associated with products present in the workplace, labels, Safety Data Sheets, precautionary measures, and emergency procedures.
The course is intended for individuals who use, handle, or may be exposed to hazardous products in an aquatic facility, including:
Aquatic facility managers;
Lifeguards;
Staff responsible for water quality and treatment;
Maintenance staff;
Anyone who handles or works near hazardous products.
A Shared Responsibility
WHMIS relies on the participation of suppliers, employers, and workers. In the workplace, the employer remains responsible for ensuring that individuals who are exposed or likely to be exposed to hazardous products receive training and information appropriate to the products, tasks, and risks specific to the workplace.
Key Information
The CNESST specifies that there is no official WHMIS certification issued or required under the regulations. A training organization may issue a certificate of completion or other proof of training, but the employer remains responsible for ensuring that the training received is appropriate and supplemented with information specific to the workplace.
Take the Course
Available courses can be found in the Lifesaving Society’s course catalogue.