What Mandatory Training Do Employees in Ontario Need?

Hiring your first employee in Ontario? Or maybe you’re scaling fast and wondering how to keep up with all the training requirements. Either way, there’s one thing you can’t afford to overlook: mandatory training for employees in Ontario.

It’s not just about checking boxes or printing certificates. Proper employee training keeps your team safe, your business compliant, and your reputation intact. But with evolving laws and industry-specific needs, figuring out what training is required for all employees in Ontario can feel overwhelming.

We will break down all the required training for Ontario employees, highlight best practices, and help you stay on top of your legal obligations.

Why Mandatory Training Matters in Ontario

Ontario’s workplace training laws aren’t just suggestions, they’re part of the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) and other regulations designed to protect both employees and employers.

When training is neglected or incomplete, the consequences can be steep:

Fines up to $100,000 per violation (and yes, that’s per employee).
Injuries and incidents that could’ve been avoided.
Legal liability, reputational damage, and workplace disruption.

In short, providing the right Ontario health and safety training isn’t just the responsible thing to do, it’s the law.

What Training is Required for All Employees in Ontario?

So, what training is required for all employees in Ontario regardless of industry? According to provincial legislation, here’s the essential list:

A complete assessment and safe operational plan are required, and these should be tailored to the risk conditions at the specific location(s).

Precautions for these confined space risks include mandatory training, and restricting access to only the essential staff needed for a work task.

1. Worker and Supervisor Health and Safety Awareness Training

Under Ontario law, both workers and supervisors must receive health and safety awareness training that aligns with their specific roles.

For workers, the training covers:

Their rights and responsibilities under the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA)
The role of the Joint Health and Safety Committee (JHSC)
How to identify common workplace hazards

For supervisors, the focus shifts to:

Legal responsibilities under OHSA
Recognizing and responding to workplace hazards
Ensuring that employees are protected and following safety protocols

Who needs Health and Safety Awareness Training? Every new hire and anyone in a supervisory position
When? Before or shortly after they begin their role

2. Workplace Violence and Harassment Training

Under Ontario’s Bill 168 and Bill 132, employers must:

Develop policies around workplace violence and harassment
Train all employees to recognize, report, and prevent inappropriate behavior

This applies to every Ontario workplace, no matter the size or industry.

3. WHMIS (Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System)

If your workplace involves hazardous products (even cleaning chemicals), WHMIS training is a must.

This training includes:

Proper handling and storage
Understanding safety data sheets
Recognizing pictograms and labels

4. Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) Training

The AODA requires organizations to provide accessibility training to employees, particularly in:

Customer service standards
Communication with people with disabilities
Inclusive hiring practices

This isn’t just for public-facing roles, it applies to everyone.

Ontario Health and Safety Training: Beyond the Basics

While the above list covers mandatory training for employees in Ontario, some workplaces go further to protect their teams and promote a healthy work environment.

Here are some additional training options that, while not always required by law, are highly recommended:

• Mental Health Awareness

Stress, burnout, and mental wellness are growing priorities for HR teams. Providing mental health training can help reduce absenteeism, improve morale, and foster a supportive workplace culture.

Ergonomics and Safe Lifting

Especially important in warehouses, retail, and office jobs. Teaching staff how to properly set up workstations or lift heavy items can reduce musculoskeletal injuries.

• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)

Many Ontario organizations are proactively offering DEI training to improve workplace culture, reduce bias, and attract diverse talent.

• Sector-Specific Certifications

For example:

Working at Heights: Required for construction or industrial roles
Food Handler Certification: Required in food services
Infection Prevention and Control (IPAC): Essential in healthcare

Staying proactive here can give your organization a competitive edge and reduce risk.

How to Stay Compliant

Here are smart ways to manage compliance efficiently:

Track Training Requirements

Keep an internal calendar or checklist of what training each employee has completed and when it’s due for renewal.

Choose the Right Training Provider

Partnering with organizations like Advanced CT can simplify your life. We offer:

Customized training packages
Online course options
Reporting and tracking tools to document completion

Document Everything

Keep records of all training sessions, attendance, and certificates. If there’s ever an inspection or claim, documentation is your best friend.

Review Annually

Laws change. Roles evolve. Make reviewing your training program a yearly ritual to stay current.

Stay Compliant with Advanced Consulting & Training

When it comes to mandatory training for employees in Ontario, shortcuts can lead to serious consequences. Whether you’re onboarding new hires or conducting a compliance audit, making sure your training is up to date isn’t just smart, it’s required.

With proper Ontario health and safety training, you’re doing more than meeting legal obligations. You’re showing your team that their safety, growth, and well-being matter. It’s a key step toward building a workplace that is inclusive, empowered, and productive.

Contact Advanced CT to learn more about how we can help you stay ahead of Ontario’s training requirements.