IHSA’s Construction Health and Safety Officer program changing to meet national standard

MISSISSAUGA—Infrastructure Health & Safety Association’s (IHSA) Construction Health and Safety Officer (CHSO) certificate has long been a standard in Ontario construction. It was designed to recognize those who have construction knowledge and practical experience in a range of health and safety topics.

CHSOs have a unique set of skills. This makes them a valuable health and safety resource in today’s busy construction marketplace. Across Canada, health and safety certification programs are beginning to follow the national standard. That’s why IHSA’s CHSO program will be changing to the National Construction Safety Officer (NCSO) program in 2016.

Along with the name change, we have added the following new requirements to align with the National Standard:

• An additional four training programs:

• COR Essentials
• COR Internal Auditor
• Introduction to Hazard & Risk Management
• Defensive Driving General

• A work assessment – Simulated exercise

• A “code of ethics” criteria

• A knowledge verification test – Provincial and National Exam

• Maintenance criteria:

• Proof of renewal for relevant courses
• Three days of professional development every three years.

NCSO Certification will demonstrate that a person’s skill level, education, and work effort has met the requirements of a National Standard. In addition, NCSOs will be qualified to serve as COR Internal Auditors and Construction Health & Safety Representatives. This will make them more marketable to potential employers.

IHSA will be releasing more information on the program modifications including new administration processes and equivalency for out-of-province CHSOs/CSOs.

Watch for more details such as timelines, costs, and frequently asked questions at ihsa.ca/NCSO