So what do you do if you come across a potentially harmful chemical substance during the course of your shift? That’s exactly what happened to an employee loading their truck in January of this year.
The employee found a package that was leaking some sort of substance. On the package, it stated it contained a barium chloride solution, which is considered toxic.
Employers handling hazardous products in BC are legally obliged to have a Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS). Some are drivers who transport dangerous goods on public roads. Those transporting dangerous goods within Canada follow a strict set of regulations that require training, placards, and documentation.
Employers obligated to follow legislation related to WHMIS and TDG (Transportation of Dangerous Goods) will have to provide training for staff to ensure they understand hazards related to harmful products or dangerous goods. The employee will thereby be aware of the appropriate action to take.
Often, employers who do not handle hazardous products or dangerous goods are not adequately trained. At least that’s what you would think.
Despite not being trained on handling harmful products, these employers are nonetheless required to provide each employee with an orientation outlining, among other things, an employee’s responsibilities, which include reporting hazards to their supervisor.
The employee at the site in question reported the leaking barium chloride and, as a result, the supervisor was able to take appropriate action in response to the toxic material. The employer eventually evacuated the building and contacted emergency services.
For a full list of employer, supervisor and worker responsibilities, refer to section 115-117 of the Workers Compensation Act.
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