Mandatory Awareness Training
Mandatory Awareness Training
What is the Occupational Health and Safety Awareness and Training Regulation (O. Reg. 297/13)?
As of July 1, 2014, employers must ensure all Ontario workers and supervisors have completed a basic occupational health and safety awareness training program. Employers must also keep records that show all workers have received training.
O. Reg. 297/13 also outlines the requirement for employers to carry out approved working from heights training (if applicable to the workplace and work being conducted) and certification training for joint health and safety committee member(s).
About Basic Occupational Health and Safety Awareness Training
The goal of awareness training is to increase worker and supervisor knowledge of basic rights and responsibilities under the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) and awareness of basic workplace health and safety issues. This training is important for all workplaces – regardless of size – especially those businesses who employ vulnerable workers.
Ensure compliance
The following steps will help your business meet its obligations and create a safer, healthier and more productive operation.
- Assess your existing awareness program against the ministry’s requirements.
- If your program does not meet requirements, figure out what’s needed and how to proceed, including an implementation schedule for training.
- Ensure all new hires receive appropriate training.
- Keep records of all training completed.
Employers should be preparedcan expect to raise the level of increase of health and safety dialogue among your workers following this training; and encourage more conversations - as awareness increases, so too will questions, ideas and, perhaps most importantly, commitment. Encouraging these conversations will demonstrate your commitment to a healthy and safe workplace too.
MLITSD Awareness Training
The Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development (MLITSD) offers free Supervisor and Worker e-learning modules and training workbooks. This is also where you can obtain the poster that must be displayed in all workplaces.
WSPS Awareness Training
WSPS also offers convenient and flexible worker and supervisor awareness training with value added benefits to fit your unique needs.
