Working at Heights Refresher Training is Practical, Hands-on Training

All workers who work in workplaces covered by the Construction Projects Regulation (O.Reg 213/91) are required to have completed a Working at Heights Training. Workers who completed their training in advance of the initial deadline of October 1, 2017 are rapidly approaching the deadline to complete Refresher Training.

In this article, we cover the basis of Working at Heights Refresher Training, including:

• What is Working at Heights Refresher Training?
• What topics are covered in a Refresher Training Class?
• How long is Refresher Training valid for?
• Why do workers need Refresher Training?
• Do workers need to take refresher training with the same provider that they completed their Working at Heights Training with?
• Are employers required to keep records of completion for Refresher Training?

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What is Working at Heights Refresher Training?

Working at heights refresher training is a practical, hands-on training class intended for workers who have already completed the Working at Heights Training course and whose certification has not expired.

​Working at Heights certification is valid for 3 years and refresher training must be completed before the expiry date on your certification card.

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What topics are covered in a Working at Heights Refresher Training Class?

The Refresher Training class is a half day course and includes the practical module of the working at heights training program.
 
The practical module covers the following topics:

1. barriers and safety nets;
2. personal fall protection equipment;
3. anchor points;
4. work positioning systems, work access and platforms; and
5. rescue planning.

In addition, it includes a hands-on demonstration of equipment and procedures, and a written test.

How long is Refresher Training valid for?

Refresher training is valid for 3 years from the date of successful completion. Upon successful competition of the refresher training, workers will receive a proof of completion document.

Trainees can contact the MOL to confirm their record of training by calling the Ministry of Labour Health & Safety Contact Centre at 1-877-202-0008.

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Why do workers need refresher training?

Refresher training reinforces key concepts from Working at Heights training and keep workers up-to-date on any legislative, regulatory or equipment (technological) changes that may impact workers who work at heights. Refresher training aims to ensure that all workers’ safety is protected.

Do workers need to take refresher training with the same provider that they completed their working at heights training with?

​No! Workers may register to take their refresher training with any CPO-approved training provider.

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Are employers required to keep records of competition of approved training?

Yes! Employers are required by O. Reg. 297/13 (Occupational Health and Safety Awareness and Training) to maintain a record of a worker’s approved working at heights training. The training record must include the:

• worker’s name
• approved training provider’s name
• date on which the training was successfully completed and
• name of the approved training program

The employer must make a training record available to an inspector on request.

Keeping a copy of a worker’s proof of completion is one way for an employer to fulfill the requirement to maintain a training record. The employer may choose to use another record-keeping method that includes the required elements listed above.

If you are looking for a safe, secure and reliable way to keep track of all of your employee training records, MidSouthWest recommends using our online learning management system and SafeTapp app to store and manage records. Contact us to request a free trial!

​Last updated June 21, 2019