In Ontario, the Construction Regulation (O. Reg. 213/91) requires that workers who use fall protection systems are adequately trained and that the training meets the Working at Heights training requirements under O. Reg. 297/13.
This training is designed to provide a basic understanding of rights and responsibilities of working at heights as well as an understanding of how to inspect, wear and maintain required equipment. Fundamentally, it is designed to ensure that workers understand the hazards of working at heights and how to control those hazards.
The training is valid for a three (3) year period after which the worker is required to complete a refresher course, consisting of a review of the practical elements of the Working at Heights Program.
Recently, the Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development (MLTSD) has provided a deferral period for workers who had taken the course between February and August of 2017. This means that the training they have received is now set to expire at the end of 2021.
Any worker who had taken the training prior to February 2017 or after August 2017 will be required to take the Working at Heights Refresher training.
As a Chief Prevention Officer (CPO) approved provider, Worksite Safety continues to offer both the Working at Heights and Working at Heights Refresher training.