Since the beginning of 2011, there have been numerous natural disasters including tsunamis, deadly earthquakes, tornadoes, flooding and fires. After disasters occur, there is always a need for clean-up. Often, hazardous materials are present, though volunteers and paid workers may not realize they are there, nor are they prepared with the right equipment to handle it. Undue exposure to such elements can cause or contribute to serious health complications such as a negative effect on the nervous system, kidney or lung damage, cancer, burns, skin irritations and sterility. Participating in hazmat safety training will help you identify when such materials are present and not only prevent health risks, but also circumvent fires or explosions that could occur in the environment where toxins are present.
Whether you are assisting with disaster clean-up or working at your everyday job, it’s vital that union members take required hazmat safety training courses to keep up-to-date with the latest procedures surround hazardous materials handling. During training courses, you’ll learn how to recognize hazardous materials symbols as well as how to interpret material safety data sheets (MSDS). According to Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS), there is a comprehensive plan available for safe use of materials in Canadian workplaces. In conjunction WHMIS and the Occupational Health & Safety Act, the International Union for Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT) and Interior Finishing Systems Training Centre are teaming up to provide mandatory hazmat safety training for union members in Ontario. Attending hazmat safety training will provide members with an increase in wages as well as further incentives. Lack of participation in this training program can lead to termination of employment and membership status in the Union.
Contact your local union representative to learn more about hazmat safety training and receive a class schedule.
What Topics are Covered in Hazmat Safety Training?
Comprehensive training courses cover information according to classes or materials. According to WHMIS, these classes include:
- Class A – Compressed Gas
- Class B – Flammable & Combustible Material
- Class C – Oxidizing Material
- Class D – Poisonous & Infectious Material
- Class E – Corrosive Material
- Class F – Dangerously Reactive Material
Depending on the class you are studying, some may be broken down into divisions. You will discuss the symbols for certain types of materials, how they can react in certain situations and their impact on the surrounding environments.
Interested in Working in the Hazardous Materials Industry?
Hazmat safety training is just one aspect of preparing for employment in the hazardous materials industry, which is becoming a certified trade. IUPAT offers a Hazmat Apprenticeship program that includes a three week training program that occurs from 7:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Monday – Friday. Participants must have completed high school or acquired a GED or CAAT. Certificate of Apprenticeship will be available once trade school and 3,000 hours are completed.
Check with your local union representative for more information on hazmat safety training in the Toronto area.
