Working at Heights Training in Ontario: What You Need to Know

All workers on a construction project in Ontario who use any method of fall protection to safeguard themselves from a fall hazard must complete a Chief Prevention Officer (CPO) approved Working at Heights (WAH) training course. Holmes Safety Training is accredited by the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development (MLITSD) to provide safety training that meets provincial standards.

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Legal Requirements for Working at Heights Training in Ontario

In Ontario, employers must keep detailed records of training for each worker. These records must include:

• The worker’s name

• The approved training provider’s name

• The name of the approved training program

• The date on which the training was successfully completed

Failure to comply with these regulations can result in penalties and job site shutdowns.

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Working at Heights Personal Fall Protection

Under O. Reg. 213/91: Construction Projects, all employees using fall protection equipment—including travel restraint systems, fall-restricting systems, fall arrest systems, safety nets, work belts, or safety belts—must take a Working at Heights course.

Additionally, per the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation, all workers must use fall protection systems when:

• They could fall from a height of 3 meters (10 feet) or more

• A fall from a lesser height could result in serious injury

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What is Covered in a Working at Heights Course?

WAH training must be completed in person. The course consists of two mandatory modules: a Basic Theory Module and a Practical Module.

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1. Working at Heights Basic Theory Module (3 Hours)

This module covers the essential knowledge required to work safely at heights. Topics include:

• Worker rights and responsibilities under the Occupational Health and Safety Act

• General hazard recognition for working at heights

• Hierarchy of controls

• Safety procedures for warning methods and physical barriers

• Safe use of ladders and similar equipment

• Introduction to personal fall protection equipment

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2. Working at Heights Practical Component (3.5 Hours)

This module provides hands-on experience in applying fall protection techniques. Topics include:

• Barriers and safety nets

• Personal fall protection equipment

• Proper use of anchor points

• Work positioning systems, access, and platforms

• Rescue planning and emergency procedures

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How Long is a Working at Heights Certificate Valid?

Holmes Safety Training’s Working at Heights certification is valid for 3 years. Workers must successfully complete both modules of an approved WAH training program to qualify for certification.

To maintain compliance, workers must complete a Working at Heights Refresher Course before their certificate expires.

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Holmes Safety Training: Trusted Working at Heights Training Provider

At Holmes Safety Training, we provide both Working at Heights Certification and Refresher Courses for workers in Ottawa and surrounding areas. Our training ensures compliance with Ontario safety regulations and prepares workers with the knowledge and hands-on skills necessary to stay safe on the job.

For more information or to register for a course, visit our Working at Heights Training Page or Contact Us.