• There is no new WHMIS for 2027. WHMIS isn’t updated annually. The current system includes the regulatory amendments introduced in December 2022.
• Annual WHMIS retraining isn’t automatically required. Refresher training depends on workplace changes, worker knowledge, and applicable employer and regulatory requirements.
• WHMIS certificates don’t need to say “2027.” What matters is that the training is current and meets the applicable requirements.
• November 19, 2027, is not a worker training deadline. It’s when Health Canada plans to change its enforcement approach for the amended Hazardous Products Regulations.
• General WHMIS training can be completed online. However, employers must also provide workplace-specific training covering the hazardous products and procedures relevant to their workers.

Introduction

As we approach 2027, Canadian workers and employers are once again asking a familiar question: Do I need WHMIS 2027 training?

If you’re a worker, you might be wondering whether you need to renew your WHMIS certificate. And if you’re an employer, you’re probably asking whether your employees need updated WHMIS training for the new year.

There’s also another question we hear quite often: Is there a new WHMIS for 2027?

Luckily, we’re here to help answer these questions!

In this post, we’ll cover what’s changed (and what hasn’t), who needs WHMIS training in 2027, and the best ways to get your WHMIS certificate or train your workforce.

Let’s start with the big question.

Is There New WHMIS Training for 2027?

The short answer is no. There isn’t a new WHMIS for 2027.

But before we get into whether you need updated training, let’s quickly review why this question comes up every year.

Back in 2015, Canada made significant changes to WHMIS to align with the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS).

Following these changes, the updated system became known as “WHMIS 2015” to distinguish it from the original system, which was then referred to as “WHMIS 1988.”

Understandably, this led many Canadian workers and employers to believe that WHMIS might be updated every year.

But that’s not how WHMIS works.

In fact, the next significant update didn’t occur until December 2022, when Health Canada amended the Hazardous Products Regulations (HPR) to align with newer revisions of the GHS.

These amendments, sometimes referred to as “WHMIS 2023,” introduced several changes, including:

• A new physical hazard class called Chemicals Under Pressure.
• A new hazard category for non-flammable aerosols.
• Updated classification criteria for flammable gases.
• Additional information requirements for Safety Data Sheets (SDSs).

A three-year transition period followed, ending on December 14, 2025.

So, while there isn’t a new WHMIS 2027, the current system includes these updated requirements.

BUT… that doesn’t necessarily mean you won’t need updated WHMIS training in 2027!

We’ll get to that shortly.

Are There Any WHMIS Changes Coming in 2027?

Interestingly, there is an important WHMIS-related date in 2027 worth knowing about.

As mentioned earlier, the transition period for the amended Hazardous Products Regulations ended on December 14, 2025. This means hazardous products sold or imported for use in Canadian workplaces must comply with the updated classification, labelling, and SDS requirements.

However, Health Canada has announced that it will continue focusing on compliance promotion with regulated parties until November 19, 2027.

Beginning on that date, Health Canada plans to follow its standard risk-based approach to compliance and enforcement.

This approach was adopted to help align Canadian regulatory enforcement with the United States, particularly for suppliers dealing with hazardous mixtures.

So, what does this mean for workers and employers?

For most workers and employers, very little will change.

The amended WHMIS requirements are already in effect. The November 2027 date is related to Health Canada’s enforcement approach, not the introduction of another WHMIS system or a new worker training deadline.

Health Canada also retains the authority to take enforcement action before that date when warranted.

You can learn more about these changes directly from Health Canada’s amended Hazardous Products Regulations guidance.

Who Needs WHMIS Training in 2027?

Now that we’ve established there isn’t a new WHMIS for 2027, let’s address the more important question: Do you or your workers need WHMIS training in 2027?

If you’re a Canadian worker who works with hazardous products or may be exposed to them during your job, you’re required to receive appropriate WHMIS education and training.

This includes workers in industries such as manufacturing, construction, healthcare, automotive, agriculture, and nearly all others.

Supervisors and managers responsible for workers who use or may be exposed to hazardous products also need sufficient WHMIS knowledge and training to fulfill their responsibilities.

It’s important to remember that WHMIS training consists of two components:

General WHMIS Training: Covers WHMIS principles, hazard classification, pictograms, supplier and workplace labels, Safety Data Sheets, and general safety practices. This is the component that can be completed through an online WHMIS training course.

Workplace-Specific WHMIS Training: Covers the actual hazardous products workers may encounter, including workplace procedures for handling, storage, personal protective equipment, and emergency response.

Employers are responsible for ensuring that workers receive both components.

You can learn more about these requirements in our complete guide to WHMIS training requirements.

How Often Should WHMIS Training Be Updated?

One of the most common questions we receive is: Does WHMIS training expire?

This one doesn’t have a simple answer.

In most Canadian jurisdictions, there isn’t a specific requirement for workers to renew their WHMIS training every year.

Instead, employers are responsible for ensuring their workers remain adequately trained and understand the hazards associated with their work.

While WHMIS education and training programs should be reviewed at least annually, this doesn’t necessarily mean every worker must repeat the entire training course each year.

There are, however, several situations where updated training may be necessary, including:

• New hazardous products are introduced into the workplace.
• Changes are made to existing work procedures or job responsibilities.
• New information becomes available about a product’s hazards.
• Workers demonstrate that they no longer understand important WHMIS concepts or safe work procedures.
• An employer’s internal policies or customer requirements specify a refresher training schedule.

WHMIS Training Best Practices for 2027

Although annual WHMIS refresher training isn’t universally mandated, it’s a practice many employers choose to follow.

This is especially beneficial for workers who regularly handle hazardous products, where a lack of knowledge can result in serious injuries or illness.

Annual refresher training helps reinforce important safety concepts, keeps workers familiar with hazard information, and provides employers with an opportunity to identify knowledge gaps.

Some employers choose to provide training less frequently, which can be perfectly acceptable depending on the hazards present, workers’ responsibilities, and their demonstrated understanding of WHMIS.

However, allowing workers to go several years without reviewing their WHMIS knowledge is generally not recommended, particularly when they’re regularly exposed to hazardous products.

Remember, the goal isn’t simply to maintain a current certificate. It’s to ensure workers have the knowledge they need to work safely.

Getting Your WHMIS Certificate in 2027

If you’re a worker who needs WHMIS training for the first time or wants to update your existing certificate, getting certified has never been easier.

With online WHMIS certification, you can complete your WHMIS training from the comfort of your home, workplace, or anywhere with an internet connection.

Online training offers several advantages:

• Complete your training at your own pace.
• Access the course from a computer, tablet, or smartphone.
• Finish the training in approximately one hour.
• Receive your WHMIS certificate instantly after successfully completing the course.

At OnlineWHMIS.ca, our training is aligned with the most recent WHMIS requirements and is trusted by employers across Canada.

And here’s something important to remember: Your WHMIS certificate doesn’t need to say “2027” to be current.

What matters is that your training reflects the current requirements and that your employer provides any additional workplace-specific training that’s required.

If your employer requires a newly issued certificate, completing an updated course is a convenient way to meet that requirement.

WHMIS 2027 Training for Employers

If you’re an employer looking to provide WHMIS training to your workers in 2027, there are several options available.

Depending on the size of your workforce and how you manage employee training, you can choose from:

Online WHMIS Training: One of the most convenient and cost-effective options for businesses. Workers complete their training independently, while employers can monitor progress, manage registrations, and access certificates through an online training management system.

Explore our online WHMIS training for employers.

Instructor-Led Training: For employers who prefer traditional classroom training, instructor-led sessions remain an excellent option. High-quality WHMIS training materials can help internal instructors deliver consistent, effective training.

WHMIS Training Videos: Training videos are another convenient solution for companies that want to provide group training without relying entirely on traditional classroom presentations.

View our WHMIS training video options.

WHMIS SCORM Training: Organizations with their own learning management system (LMS) can integrate SCORM WHMIS training into their existing employee training programs.

If you’d prefer to conduct your own training sessions but need additional knowledge and guidance, our WHMIS Train-the-Trainer course can help prepare you to deliver effective WHMIS training.

Regardless of which method you choose, remember that general WHMIS training must be supplemented with workplace-specific instruction covering the hazardous products and procedures relevant to your workers.

Final Thoughts

So, is there a new WHMIS 2027?

No. There isn’t a new version of WHMIS being introduced specifically for 2027.

Although Health Canada’s approach to enforcing the amended Hazardous Products Regulations is scheduled to change in November 2027, the current WHMIS requirements are already in effect.

But that doesn’t mean Canadian workers and employers won’t need updated WHMIS training in 2027.

If you’re a worker who needs initial WHMIS training or wants to refresh your knowledge, online training is a convenient and affordable way to get your certificate in approximately one hour.

And if you’re an employer responsible for training your workforce, there are plenty of flexible options available, including online training, instructor-led programs, videos, and SCORM courses.

Not sure which option is best for you?

Feel free to contact us through live chat or our contact page. We’re always happy to help you find the right WHMIS training solution!

Is there a new WHMIS for 2027?

No. WHMIS isn’t updated annually, and there is no separate WHMIS 2027 system. The current requirements reflect amendments to the Hazardous Products Regulations that came into force in December 2022, with the transition period ending in December 2025.

Do I need to retake WHMIS training if I completed it in 2026?

Not necessarily. If your previous training covers the current WHMIS requirements and your workplace conditions haven’t changed, you may not need to repeat your general training in 2027. However, your employer may require refresher training based on workplace hazards, internal policies, or other requirements.

Is WHMIS 2015 training still valid in 2027?

No, WHMIS 2015 training is no longer valid. Some training providers may still use the term “WHMIS 2015,” but the training itself must reflect the updated WHMIS requirements. An outdated course that hasn’t incorporated the December 2022 amendments may no longer provide all the information workers need.

Does my WHMIS certificate need to say 2027?

No. There is no legal requirement for WHMIS certificates to display “2027.” What matters is that the training is current and meets the applicable requirements. Employers may establish their own policies regarding certificate age and refresher training.

Can I complete WHMIS 2027 training online?

Absolutely! General WHMIS training can be completed online through a reputable training provider. However, employers must also ensure workers receive workplace-specific instruction covering the hazards, products, and safe work procedures associated with their jobs.