If you work on construction sites in Ontario, you must take working-at-heights training; it is mandatory.
Many workers fail to remember that certification is valid for a maximum of 3 years from the date of issue, and after this time frame, a worker must complete a working at heights refresher course to keep their certification compliant.
If your certification has expired:
- You may not be allowed to access a job site.
- Your employer will incur fines or penalties.
- Projects scheduled for completion may be delayed.
The key to staying in compliance as well as protecting yourself and your employer is to plan in advance so that you meet your deadline.
Book Your Working at heights Training Course Now.
Ontario Regulation 297/13: What Does the Law Say?
In compliance with the Construction Projects Regulation (Ontario Regulation 297/13), workers on construction projects must complete approved working at heights training.
The Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training, and Skills Development enforces this regulation.
As per the law:
- A training provider that is CPO approved will deliver training.
- Required theoretical and practical component in the training programme.
- Certifications are valid for three (3) years.
However, if your certification is not renewed on or before its expiration date, then you will no longer have a legal right to work at heights on any type of construction project.
Full Course vs. Refresher: Which One Do You Need?
Many people are not sure if they require a full WAH course or just a refresher.
You need the WAH refresher course if:
- Your certificate is about to expire (within the last 3 years).
- You have completed CPO-approved training.
- Your training record remains active in the system.
The refresher will cover:
- Changes to legislation
- Updated Ministry of Labor safety training standards
- Improvements in hazard recognition
- Rescue planning procedures
You need to retake the full course if:
- Your certificate expired more than three (3) years ago.
- You have not completed CPO-approved training.
- You have completed prior training that does not have CPO approval.
The refresher is shorter and more focused, while the full course is more comprehensive and contains a full practical evaluation.
Signs Your Certification is About to Expire
Still need to know if it’s time to renew? Look out for the following indicators:
- Your certificate was completed around 3 years ago.
- Your company has asked you for updated evidence.
- You are beginning a new building project.
- You have had a recent renewal reminder from your training provider.
Best practice: Schedule your renewal at least a few weeks before the expiry date. Waiting until the final days to book your renewal can create more stressful situations than necessary, as there will be very few spots available.
Top-Rated Safety Training in Your Area
Choosing a local, approved provider for quick processing and documentation verification.
Why Train with Trainability?
Choosing the right provider for compliance training, such as working at heights, requires considering the experience level of the provider, which is important.
Expert Trainers
All our instructors have experience working on real job sites and are skilled at delivering practical, job-site-based training, not just theory.
Multi-Course Discounts
If you need multiple certifications (i.e., confined space and first aid), we may offer bundled pricing to save you additional costs.
Immediate Proof of Completion
You will receive completion confirmation immediately after the class so that there won’t be a delay in returning to work.
Trainability provides the following:
- CPO-Approved Training in Ontario
- Curriculum Aligned with Ministry Standards
- Practical Evaluations Included in Course Content
- Proper Documentation for Inspection Purposes
Conclusion
If your 3-year deadline is approaching, don’wait. t.Book your working at heights training renewal today and stay compliant, certified, and site-ready.
Frequently Asked Questions
Working at heights training is valid for three years. After that, you will need to complete a WAH refresher course.
If it has been expired longer than 3 years, you will most likely be required to retake the full course instead of the refresher.
Yes. Workers in construction must complete training that is provided by a CPO.
Yes. It is strongly recommended to complete your renewal certification prior to the expiration date to avoid any disruption in your being able to work.
Yes. The refresher course is designed to review core safety principles and can have practicals, depending on the provider’s requirements
