Dangerous goods training in Australia may be required for your workers if you process, package, and ship anything considered dangerous. This would include any substance that could be a hazard to human health or the environment, including certain chemicals, cleansers, pesticides, and the like. Flammable materials are also typically considered dangerous goods. If your facility handles these types of goods, note a few questions you might have about dangerous goods training for your staff and then, if necessary, discuss these with an attorney who can advise you on your rights and obligations as a business owner.
1. Do warehouse personnel need training even if they don't handle the actual goods themselves?
Persons who work in the storage industry typically must receive dangerous goods training even if dangerous goods are always securely packed and are not opened or actually handled. Remember that dangerous goods training will include training on what to do in case of spills, fires, and other such accidents, and it's vital that your entire staff be properly trained for these scenarios and not just trained in how to actually handle dangerous goods themselves. They will also be trained in proper packaging and placards use and placement, and this too is important for those working in the storage industry even if they don't actually open packages.
2. Are courses valid if offered online?
Many organizations that offer certified courses offer them online, either as a webinar, meaning a live demonstration, or as a recorded course that your employees can take when convenient. As long as the courses meet all certification requirements for dangerous goods training, there is typically no need to take the training in person or even with a live presentation online, as a recorded course is typically sufficient.
3. What is revalidation training?
After taking initial training, you are typically required to take revalidation training every few years, depending on the course you need to take and your industry. You will need to always have an initial training certificate before you can take revalidation training, even if you have experience in working with dangerous goods. If your initial certificate has expired, you are usually required to take that initial training again in order to qualify for revalidation training. If you're unsure of which type of course you need to take to keep your certificate current and in good order, ask a trainer before you sign up or sign up anyone on your staff.
