Your Complete Guide to Health and Safety in the Workplace

Please check our website for our 2025 course dates!

JOINT HEALTH & SAFETY COMMITTEE CERTIFICATION TRAINING

Wilkens Health and Safety Solutions (WHSS) is the only Chief Prevention Officer (CPO) approved Joint Health and Safety Committee (JHSC) Certification training provider located in Kingston. 

As most workplaces with twenty (20) or more workers must have a JHSC established, we regularly hold training sessions. At least one (1) worker and one (1) management representative of this committee must be certified by completing the prescribed training standards set by the MOL. 

Part One Basic Certification Training 

Part One Basic Certification training provides an overall knowledge of the Health and Safety Legislation that applies to most workplaces. 

Part Two Workplace Specific Training 

Part Two Workplace Specific Certification training focuses on the significant hazards in your workplace and how to assess, control and/or eliminate them.

Refresher Certification Training 

This course is designed to include all sectors and reviews the essentials of the Part 1 and 2 Certification training as well as highlight any legislative changes that have occurred within the last three years.

Visit our website to register for the Part 1, Part 2 or Refresher Certification Courses.

Steps for Life Brings Awareness About Workplace Safety

Kingston, walk with us this May and show your passion for workplace safety! 

Every year in Canada, close to 1000 workers are killed on the job or die as a result of a work-related injury or illness. Every one of the families that are left behind has a story about their loved one. On May 3rd, we walk to make sure their voices and stories are heard and that these families know they're supported through such a difficult time.

Steps for Life is the premier annual event for Threads of Life, raising funds and awareness for families affected by workplace tragedy. This fun 5-km walk is hosted by the team at Wilkens Health and Safety Solutions and takes place at the Little Cataraqui Creek Conservation Area.

If you have any questions about registering yourself or a team in Kingston, or for more information, don’t hesitate to contact us. Reach out to Rosanna Bylsma at rbylsma@whss.ca for more information.

For Sponsorships, please click here! For Walk Registration, click here.

Follow @stepsforlife_kingston for updates and more.

Keep Brain Health Top of Mine — March is Brain Awareness Month

The brain is the body’s most vital organ, yet it's also the least understood. In Canada, 5.5 million people live with chronic brain conditions—a number projected to rise dramatically over the next 20 years. To address this growing concern, Neurological Health Charities Canada (NHCC) was formed in 2008, uniting 26 organizations with the mission of making brain health a top priority for policymakers.

NHCC’s efforts led to the launch of the National Population Health Study on Neurological Conditions (NPHSNC)—a groundbreaking $15-million study aimed at understanding the prevalence and impact of neurological conditions in Canada. With insights from 127 researchers at over 30 institutions, this study is laying the foundation for evidence-based policies to support those affected.

Want to get involved? Follow NHCC on social media or visit mybrainmatters.ca to learn how you can help make brain health a national priority.

International Women’s Day – March 8, 2025

International Women’s Day (IWD) is a global day to recognize the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women and girls. It’s also a call to action to advance gender equality.

This year, the Government of Canada’s theme is “Strength in every story”, highlighting the power of women’s voices, especially those facing ongoing barriers. By creating opportunities, we can unlock potential, drive innovation, and support a sustainable future for all Canadians.

How to get involved:

• Share stories of women making a difference in your community or workplace.

• Explore inspiring Canadian women through resources like the Women of Impact in Canada online gallery and the Women in Canadian History: A Timeline.

• Start a conversation on social media using #IWD2025.

Let’s celebrate the women and girls in our lives, and amplify their stories of resilience, determination, and achievement.

5 Reasons Why First Aid Training Is a Must for All Canadians

Emergencies can happen anywhere—at work, at home, or in public spaces. Having first aid training is essential for everyone. Here’s why:

1.     Confidence in Emergencies:

First aid training equips you to take charge, prevent conditions from worsening, and remain calm in emergencies.

2.     Life-Saving Skills:

Quick, trained responses can save lives and significantly reduce recovery times for victims.

3.     Comfort and Care:

Even basic knowledge—like applying an ice pack or offering emotional support—can relieve pain and ease anxiety.

4.     Preventing Deterioration:

Early intervention stabilizes patients until emergency services arrive, with trained individuals collecting crucial information for responders.

5.     Self-Care and Safety Awareness:

Learn how to protect yourself, spot hazards, and adopt healthier habits to reduce risks.

Be Prepared! Whether for work or personal growth, first aid training builds confidence and saves lives. Don’t wait for an emergency to wish you knew what to do—get trained today!

Visit whss.ca to sign up for our Standard First Aid or Emergency First Aid Course.

World Sleep Day – March 14, 2025

Sleep is essential for overall health and safety. Yet, many people overlook its importance, especially in the workplace. World Sleep Day on Friday, March 14, 2025, is a global call to action to make sleep health a priority.

Why it matters:

• Sleep issues increase the risk of work-related injuries.

• Women, particularly in processing, manufacturing, and rotating shift roles, face higher risks.

• Promoting healthy sleep habits can improve safety, productivity and overall well-being.

Start conversations about sleep health in your workplace and community. Share the message using #WorldSleepDay on social media.

Together, we can elevate the conversation around sleep and help build safer, healthier environments for everyone. Visit worldsleepday.org for more information.

Wiebke Wilkens: Celebrating 24 Years of Excellence in Health & Safety!

This March 15^th, 2025, we’re proud to celebrate Wiebke Wilkens and her 24-year journey as a dedicated health and safety consultant!

Since founding Wilkens Health and Safety Solutions in 2001, Wiebke has provided businesses with expert guidance on evaluations, training, and managing WSIB claims. Her extensive career includes leadership roles at Queen’s University and the Ontario Ministry of Labour, along with significant volunteer contributions to community safety initiatives.

Wiebke’s commitment to injury prevention and workplace safety has earned provincial and national recognition, including awards from CAUBO and the Industrial Accident Prevention Association (IAPA), as well as induction into the Most Venerable Order of the Hospital of St. John of Jerusalem.

Read more about her inspiring journey in the Fine Lifestyles Magazine “Women of Achievement” edition!

Making Health & Safety Easier for Small Businesses

Small businesses make up 85% of Ontario’s employers, yet many find meeting health and safety requirements challenging.

The WSIB is making it easier with a streamlined program that removes red tape, provides clear guidance, and improves accessibility.

• $1,000 incentive just for signing up and creating an action plan

• Work through 41 safety topics at your own pace

• New focus on mental health with tools to address stress and burnout

• Earn rebates per completed topic and showcase your efforts with digital badges

Businesses also gain expert support and a clear five-year pathway to build a strong safety culture.

RELEVANT UPDATES

_{Upcoming WHSS Courses}

_Register Your Employees Today!

All courses scheduled are offered following safe distancing protocols, as well as all other mandated safety protocols - this means fewer people being allowed to register for each course - allowing for safe participation.

Private on-site courses can also be arranged for groups of six (6) or more. Please contact Rebecca Sousa at 613.546.9814 ext. 2224 for more details.

WHSS continues to be a training partner for Working at Heights with the Infrastructure Health and Safety Association (IHSA). Contact us today to arrange your full or refresher course. Courses are scheduled on an as needed basis and can be held at your site or at a suitable training location.

For a complete listing of upcoming courses, click here or contact Rebecca Sousa at rsousa@whss.ca  by email or 613.546.9814 ext. 2224 for more details.

Contact Us

t: 613-546-9814 e: info@whss.ca

www.whss.ca