Lesson 4: First Aid, WHMIS, and OH&S

First-Aid/CPR

First Aid and CPR training refers to a series of instructional courses designed to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide immediate assistance and potentially life-saving interventions in emergency situations. These courses are typically offered by organizations such as the Red Cross and other similar institutions.

First Aid training covers a wide range of basic medical techniques and procedures that can be performed on-site by bystanders or non-medical personnel until professional medical help arrives. The training typically includes instruction on how to assess the scene for safety, check the victim’s consciousness and breathing, and provide appropriate care for various injuries and illnesses. This can include administering first aid for cuts, burns, fractures, bleeding, choking, heatstroke, allergic reactions, and more.

CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) training is a specific component of first aid training that focuses on life-saving techniques for individuals experiencing cardiac arrest or a sudden cardiac event. CPR involves a combination of chest compressions and rescue breaths to maintain blood circulation and provide oxygen to the brain and other vital organs. CPR training usually covers both adult and infant/child techniques, as the approach can differ depending on the age of the victim.

During First Aid and CPR training, participants receive hands-on practice through simulations and often undergo assessments to demonstrate their competency in performing these techniques correctly and effectively. These courses aim to empower individuals to respond promptly and confidently during emergencies, potentially increasing the chances of survival and minimizing the severity of injuries or health complications before professional help arrives.

The Automated External Defibrillator (AED)

A new an modern piece of first-aid and CPR is the Automated External Defibrillator (AED).  An AED is a portable electronic device used in emergency situations to deliver an electric shock to the heart. It is primarily used to treat sudden cardiac arrest (SCA), a condition in which the heart suddenly stops beating effectively.

The AED is designed to be used by non-medical personnel, such as bystanders or first responders, in order to provide immediate assistance until professional medical help arrives. It analyzes the heart rhythm of a person in cardiac arrest and, if necessary, delivers a controlled electric shock to restore the heart’s normal rhythm. The device provides voice and visual prompts to guide the user through the steps of operation.

Early defibrillation with an AED is crucial in improving the chances of survival for a person experiencing SCA. The sooner an AED is used, the greater the likelihood of successfully restoring a normal heart rhythm. AEDs are commonly found in public places such as airports, schools, malls, sports facilities, and workplaces, as well as in healthcare settings and emergency vehicles.

According to the Heart and Stroke Foundation Canada:

AEDS. Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada. (n.d.). https://www.heartandstroke.ca/how-you-can-help/learn-cpr/aeds#:~:text=Anyone%20can%20use%20an%20AED,a%20heart%20that%20needs%20it.  Accessed May 17, 2023.

Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHIMS)

WHMIS stands for the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System. It is a comprehensive system designed to ensure the safe use, handling, and storage of hazardous materials in the workplace. WHMIS is a Canadian hazard communication standard that was developed to protect workers by providing them with information about the hazards associated with the chemicals they work with or may be exposed to.

The main components of WHMIS are hazard classification, labels, safety data sheets (SDSs), and worker education and training. Hazard classification involves identifying and categorizing hazardous materials based on their physical and chemical properties. Labels are affixed to containers of hazardous materials to communicate the hazards and provide handling instructions. Safety data sheets (SDSs), formerly known as Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDSs), provide detailed information about the properties, handling procedures, and emergency measures for each hazardous material.

Worker education and training play a crucial role in WHMIS. Employers are responsible for providing workers with information and training on the hazards associated with the chemicals they work with, as well as the safe handling and storage practices. This ensures that workers have the knowledge and skills necessary to protect themselves and others from potential hazards.

WHMIS has undergone a recent update in Canada, aligning with the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS), which is an internationally recognized standard for hazard communication. This update, known as WHMIS 2015, introduced new hazard classes, standardized labels, and revised SDS formats to improve consistency and understanding of chemical hazards.

WHIMIS training and certification is generally achieved online by taking a short course.  There are many providers of such training such as WorkSafe Saskatchewan in conjunction with the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS).  You may access the free training at the following address:

https://www.worksafesask.ca/training/online-courses/online-whmis-training/

Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S) Training

In Canada, Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) training Level 1 refers to a basic entry-level course designed to provide individuals with a foundational understanding of workplace health and safety principles. This training is typically offered by various organizations, including government agencies, educational institutions, and private training providers.

The Level 1 training program aims to equip participants with the fundamental knowledge and skills needed to identify workplace hazards, prevent injuries and accidents, and promote a safe working environment. The specific content covered in Level 1 training may vary slightly between different providers, but generally, it includes the following topics:

1. Introduction to occupational health and safety regulations: An overview of the relevant OHS legislation, including rights and responsibilities of workers and employers.
2. Hazard recognition and assessment: Identifying common workplace hazards such as chemical, physical, biological, and ergonomic hazards, and learning how to assess their potential risks.
3. Injury prevention: Understanding the causes of workplace injuries and learning strategies to prevent accidents, including safe work practices and the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
4. Incident reporting and investigation: Learning the importance of reporting workplace incidents, near misses, and injuries, as well as the basics of incident investigation techniques.
5. Workplace ergonomics: Understanding ergonomic principles to minimize the risk of musculoskeletal disorders and promote good posture and body mechanics.
6. Occupational hygiene: An introduction to the basic principles of occupational hygiene, including exposure assessment, control measures for hazardous substances, and ventilation systems.
7. Emergency preparedness: Learning about emergency response procedures, including fire safety, evacuation plans, and first aid requirements.
8. Communication and worker participation: Understanding the importance of effective communication in promoting workplace health and safety, as well as the rights of workers to participate in health and safety initiatives.

Level 1 training serves as a foundation for further OHS education and is often a prerequisite for more advanced levels of training. It is important to note that specific training requirements and certification processes can vary between provinces and territories in Canada, as occupational health and safety regulations are enforced at the provincial or territorial level.

Occupational Health and Safety Training Level 1 may be obtained through Worksafe Saskatchewan.  According to Worksafe Saskatchewan: