Workplace Safety FAQ
Hello, welcome to the UWO Department of Anthropology Safety Page. This webpage provides you with information regarding both department-specific and university-wide safety protocols and procedures. If you have any specific questions not covered here, please contact the Laboratory Manager, at eeastaug@uwo.ca.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Who is required to complete the WHMIS, Occupational Health and Safety, and AODA certifications?
A: WHMIS is required of all university employees, including staff, faculty, graduate students, work study students, and volunteers.
Q: Where can I find the quiz and more information?
A:The WHMIS and H&S Orientation training has changed and there is now only 1 NEW version of WHMIS. You will find more information on these two pages:
WHMIS info http://www.uwo.ca/hr/safety/topics/whmis.html
Required Training - http://www.uwo.ca/hr/learning/required/index.html
Q: Why must I complete all of these certifications?
A: As part of the University’s mission for a safe environment and in accordance with federal, provincial, and municipal legislation, all individuals who work and/or study at UWO are required to complete these certifications for the protection of all and minimization of risk of injury and damage to individuals and property.
Q: How often must I complete WHMIS?
A: WHMIS is good for three years, therefore recertification is required every three years.
Q: I am away in the field and I received a notice that my WHMIS has expired. Do I still need to renew it even though I am not on campus?A: Yes, the WHMIS is still required as long as you are registered as a graduate student at UWO.
Q: What are the consequences for not completing these safety certifications?
A: The consequences for not completing these safety certifications vary. At a minimum, you may lose access to laboratory facilities or be disciplined by your supervisor. The University also reserves the right to dismiss you from your position if you do not fulfill the duties and requirements of your position, including failure or refusal to complete the safety certifications.
Q: What is the Occupational Health and Safety Orientation?
A: The Occupational Health and Safety Orientation is a session meant to inform the participant of all the necessary information pertaining to the Occupational Health & Safety Act of Ontario, health and safety partners at Western, know what workplace hazards are and what to do when they are encountered, know how to properly respond to campus fires and emergencies, and know one’s duty to report workplace accidents and incidents.
Q: What is the AODA?
A: AODA stands for Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act and falls under the Accessibility at Western protocols established at UWO. The purpose of this act is to improve opportunities to individuals with disabilities and identify, remove, and prevent barriers that hinder their ability to participate in the life of the province. The Accessibility at Western (AODA) quizzes are in accordance to the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act in order to inform and educate all students, employees, faculty, and staff of requirements of the Act and how to aid and help affected individuals.
Q: Where do I complete the AODA quizzes?
A: WebCT Owl: You can login HERE. You will need your employee ID, which is separate from your student ID. If you are unsure which ID to use, please contact ITS Computer Accounts Office at accting@uwo.ca or by 519 661-3800 Monday - Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.
Q: Which quiz (teaching or service) do I take?
A: Please ask your supervisor which certification is required of you and your position within the University.
Q: What are PPEs?
A: PPE stands for Personal Protection Equipment and includes but is not limited to lab coats, safety glasses, respirators, chairs, etc. Prescription safety glasses, respirators, and other PPEs that are required in order to complete employment duties and/or research may be provided by the University. To inquire or to place an order for PPE you may require, please speak directly to your supervisor or the Bioarchaeology Laboratory Manager.
Q: I wish to work with X-rays, hazardous materials, lasers, radiation, outside in hot weather, etc. Do I need to complete any additional safety training?
