Dangerous Goods Fire Code Training
Part 2 of a 2-Part Series for Warehouse Managers and Workers
In Part 1 of this series, we looked at the labels and placards required to identify dangerous goods inside a warehouse, lab, or industrial facility. In Part 2, we cover the mandatory training requirements under the National Fire Code of Canada to help your team stay prepared and compliant.
Why Training Matters
Whether you’re storing corrosives, flammable liquids, or pressurized gases, you need more than just proper signage. Your staff must know what to do both during normal operations and in an emergency. Fires, spills, and exposures can happen quickly, and poorly trained employees can turn a bad situation into a disaster.
Who Must Be Trained?
Under the Fire Code, every building where dangerous goods are stored or handled must have:
- At least one trained person on-site at all times
- Someone in responsible charge during operating hours
- 24/7 emergency response coverage
This responsible person must:
- Be trained in handling, storing, and offering for transport of dangerous goods under their provincial, territorial, or federal occupational safety and health regulations, but if those don’t apply, they must follow either:
- The Transportation of Dangerous Goods Regulations (TDGR), or
- The Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS)
What About Other Employees?
Every employee involved in storing or handling dangerous goods must be trained in:
- Safe handling procedures for the goods on site
- Emergency response actions, such as fire or spill containment
- Evacuation plans and proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE)
Tip for managers: Training must be documented and refreshed regularly, especially when new staff are hired, or new materials are introduced.
Make It Practical
Good training isn’t just reading a binder. Use practical, real-life examples such as:
- How to identify a leaking drum
- What to do if a placard is missing
- How to activate the facility’s emergency shut-off system
- Who calls 911 and what information they should provide for example know the physical address of one’s location withing a large facility
Final Takeaway
Labels and placards warn responders of the danger. Training prepares your team to handle it.
Don’t wait for an incident to test your emergency readiness. The Fire Code makes it clear: every facility must have trained, responsible personnel on-site at all times when dangerous goods are present.
Ensure your warehouse meets Fire Code training requirements — explore our TDG and WHMIS training today. Contact our compliance experts for guidance at 855.734.5469 or send us an email
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