Abstract
BACKGROUND: Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) is the Canadian standard for hazard communication. This system consists of hazard classification, cautionary labelling of containers, safety data sheets, as well as worker education and training programs. In British Columbia, WorkSafeBC is the legal authority for occupational health and safety. Employers must provide worker education and training while workers must participate in the learning opportunities as required. Despite these requirements, there is currently no legislation that mandates WHMIS certificate holders to recertify after a period of time. Holders may work decades for the same organization and receive their one and only training session in their careers when they started working. There is a likelihood that information vital to occupational health and safety is gradually forgotten. This research study examined WHMIS knowledge retention of holders upon being certified. METHODS: Self-administered online surveys were created on SurveyMonkey then distributed via social media platforms and educational groups. The survey consisted of 17 questions relating to demographics and WHMIS knowledge. The data was analyzed on Number Cruncher Statistical System (NCSS) 2021 using independent t-test and analysis of variance (ANOVA) statistical tests. RESULTS: The average WHMIS knowledge score was 60%. Statistical analyses showed no statistically significant differences in WHMIS certificate holders' knowledge (i) after every four years upon being certified (p = 0.14 and p = 0.07), (ii) based on the number of times that holders successfully completed the certificate (p = 0.68 and p = 0.53), (iii) as well as no difference in holders' knowledge and holders' age (p = 0.20 and p = 0.07) or gender (p = 0.65 and p = 0.72) . However, there was a difference in holders' self-perceived knowledge and holders' actual knowledge (p=0.02 and p =0.03). CONCLUSIONS: This research study found a difference in WHMIS certificate holder's self-perceived knowledge and the holder's actual knowledge; those perceiving better WHMIS knowledge scored significantly higher than those who perceived weak WHMIS knowledge. As such, organizations should offer WHMIS refresher courses to holders who may find it beneficial to review materials on an annual basis.