Examples of training programs mandated by government legislation/regulations

To maintain safe and compliant workplaces, government legislation and regulations in Canada mandate various training programs for employees across different sectors, industries and/or roles. The following list provides an overview of key training areas and examples of relevant programs, highlighting the importance of equipping employees with the necessary knowledge and skills to create inclusive, secure, and healthy work environments while minimizing risks and liabilities.

Note: Some training programs are mandatory for all organizations, and additional ones are also mandatory depending on the type of services your organization provides. Make sure to verify the programs that apply to your organization.

1. Health and safety training: To educate employees on workplace hazards and safe work practices, per the Canada Labour Code Part II, provincial and territorial occupational health and safety laws. Examples: WorkSafeBC, Alberta Occupational Health and Safety.
2. Harassment and discrimination prevention training: To teach employees how to recognize and prevent harassment and discrimination, in line with the Canadian Human Rights Act, the Employment Equity Act, and provincial and territorial human rights legislation. Examples: Commission des normes, de l’équité, de la santé et de la sécurité du travail (CNESST), Manitoba Human Rights Commission.
3. Accessibility training: To instruct employees on how to communicate and interact with people with disabilities and ensure accessibility, as mandated by federal, provincial, and territorial accessibility laws. Examples: Access by Design 2030, Disability Policy Office.
4. Privacy and confidentiality training: To inform employees on protecting personal information and maintaining confidentiality, as required under the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA) and provincial and territorial privacy laws. Examples: Office of the Saskatchewan Information and Privacy Commissioner, Information and Privacy Commissioner of the Northwest Territories.
5. Anti-money laundering training: To train employees on recognizing and preventing money laundering and terrorist financing, as outlined by the Proceeds of Crime (Money Laundering) and Terrorist Financing Act and regulations. Example: Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada (FINTRAC).
6. Cybersecurity training: To teach employees how to recognize and prevent cybersecurity threats and protect sensitive information, as required under federal, provincial, and territorial privacy laws. Example: Canadian Centre for Cybersecurity.
7. Food safety training: To provide training on food safety and handling for nonprofits that offer food services, per the Food and Drugs Act and regulations. Examples: PEI Department of Health and Wellness – Food Safety.
8. First aid and CPR training: To instruct employees on first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), as required under provincial and territorial workplace health and safety laws. Examples: Northwest Territories and Nunavut’s Workers’ Safety and Compensation Commission.