Summer 2021 changes

On June 30, 2021, changes to the Joint Health and Safety Committee (JHSC) Certification Training Program Standard came into effect. These changes do not affect the approval status of existing training providers.

The changes allow training providers to apply to deliver JHSC training through distance learning. Under the new standards, training providers who:

  • deliver face-to-face training may apply to deliver the same program through distance learning
  • do not yet deliver face-to-face training can apply for Chief Prevention Officer approval to deliver both distance and face-to-face training

These changes replace the JHSC Distance Learning Standard. Training providers that were approved under that standard do not need to reapply for approval.

Changes have also been made to the JHSC training provider standard.

Scope

Section 7.6 of the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) gives the Chief Prevention Officer (CPO) the authority to establish training and other requirements that a Joint Health and Safety Committee (JHSC) member must fulfil in order to become a certified member. The CPO has the authority, to certify a committee member who fulfils those requirements, to amend those requirements, to establish conditions to maintain certification, to establish a validity period and to amend certifications.

Section 7.2 of the OHSA provides the CPO with the authority to establish standards a training provider must meet in order to be approved to deliver one or more approved training programs.

Section 7.1 of the OHSA provides the CPO the authority to establish standards for training programs required under the OHSA and its regulations, and to approve training programs that meet those standards.

This Standard outlines the minimum standard that a program must meet in order to be approved by the CPO. It should be read in conjunction with the JHSC Certification Training Provider Standard, which outlines the minimum standard that must be met by training providers who are seeking approval by the CPO to deliver an approved JHSC certification training program.

In order to be approved by the CPO as a JHSC certification training provider delivering an approved JHSC Certification Training Program, providers must be able to demonstrate both that they meet the JHSC Certification Training Provider Standard and that the program they are delivering meets the JHSC Certification Training Program Standard.

1. Introduction

Certification of certain Joint Health and Safety Committee (JHSC) members is required under section 9 of Ontario’s Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA).

The JHSC Certification Training Program Standard specifies the criteria that a program must meet in order to be approved by the Chief Prevention Officer (CPO).

Chief Prevention Officer (CPO) approval may be granted to those programs that meet the Training Program Standard after a successful assessment and review of a program that is submitted to the Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development.

It is the responsibility of the workplace parties to ensure compliance with training requirements under the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA). In determining what rights or obligations a party may have under the legislation, reference should always be made to the official version of the Act and the regulations.

The internal responsibility system (IRS), the foundation of Ontario’s approach to workplace health and safety, is built on the principle that workplace parties share responsibility for occupational health and safety according to their ability to influence it. Employers and workers work together to recognize and control hazards within workplaces to achieve optimum health and safety performance.

Upon successful completion of an approved program, certified members should have the knowledge and skills needed to fulfill their legislated duties as JHSC certified members and should be able to support the workplace parties in understanding their roles as part of the IRS in preventing occupational injuries and illnesses. Certification training differs from the job-specific occupational health and safety training that employers are required to provide to workers under the OHSA and its regulations.

A program submitted for approval by the CPO can include: Part One, Part Two, and/or Refresher training program or any combination of the three. Similarly, a training provider applying with a face-to-face program may be approved by the CPO to deliver Part One training, Part Two training, Refresher training, or any combination of the three.

Training providers applying to be approved by the CPO to deliver JHSC Part One eLearning training must:

  • already be CPO approved to deliver JHSC Part One and Part Two face-
  • to-face training programs, or
  • simultaneously apply for CPO approval to deliver JHSC Part One and Part Two as face-to-face training programs

Training providers applying to be approved by the CPO to deliver training through distance learning must:

  • already be CPO approved to deliver their existing, approved program through face-to-face training, or
  • simultaneously apply for CPO approval to deliver the same program as a face-to-face training program.

Training providers will need to maintain CPO approval for their face-to-face programs in order to maintain CPO approval for their eLearning and/or distance learning program(s).

This Program Standard allows for a variety of program and delivery options to meet the CPO-established training and other requirements a committee member must fulfil to become certified.

1.1 Application

At workplaces where a JHSC is required under the OHSA, the OHSA also requires that, unless otherwise prescribed, at least one JHSC member representing the employer and one member representing workers must be certified by the CPO. The Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development recognizes these certified members require special training to effectively carry out their functions and to support workplace parties in understanding their role in preventing workplace injuries, illnesses and fatalities.

2. Purpose

The purpose of this Standard is to provide minimum criteria for the development and delivery of approved training programs. This training program standard will be reviewed by the Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development (MLTSD) at least every five years.

Under the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA), certified members of the JHSC or a designated worker member have the right to investigate or to be present during the investigation of dangerous circumstances. Furthermore, the certified employer and certified worker members can act together and direct the employer to stop the work or stop the use of any part of a workplace or of any equipment, machine, device, article or thing. The OHSA also states that “if possible”, the worker certified member of the JHSC or a designated worker member should be assigned to conduct workplace inspections. Certified members may also be involved in other duties such as:

  • participating in work refusals, fatalities and critical injury investigations
  • attending the beginning of workplace testing
  • reviewing employer compliance with an inspector’s orders
  • unilateral work stoppages in certain circumstances

Certified members play an essential role in the Internal Responsibility System (IRS) for the occupational health and safety of Ontario workplaces. To be effective in these duties, these members need a broad foundation of knowledge. As such, the learning outcomes in the Joint Health and Safety Committee (JHSC) Certification Training Program Standard provide a framework that includes familiarity with workplace hazards that can be applied to the member’s specific workplace.

Training on all the hazards that might be found in a particular workplace is not required to become certified. However, an understanding of the recognition, assessment, control, and evaluation process in identifying hazards provides certified members with skills to apply their knowledge to contribute to the IRS for a healthy and safe workplace.

eLearning training has been added as an option for the delivery of Part One JHSC training in order to allow CPO-approved training providers to offer flexible learning options. The CPO requires all providers that deliver an eLearning program to also offer face-to-face training to learners.

Training providers may also apply to deliver their face-to-face programs via distance learning. The CPO requires that all providers that deliver programs through distance learning also be approved to deliver the same program face-to-face.

3. Overview

The Joint Health and Safety Committee (JHSC) Certification Training Program Standard includes criteria for what should be included in Part One training, Part Two training, and Refresher training.

3.1 Part One training

Part one training is generic to all workplaces that require both employer and worker certified members, regardless of workplace sector. Topics include:

  • occupational health and safety law
  • rights, duties and responsibilities of the workplace parties
  • hazard recognition, assessment and control and evaluation of hazard controls
  • joint health and safety committees
  • duties and responsibilities of JHSC members and certified members
  • health and safety resources

3.2 Part Two training

Part two training focuses on:

  • the concepts of hazard recognition, assessment, and control, and evaluation of hazard controls
  • participants will learn how to apply these concepts to a minimum of six (6) hazards relevant to their own workplaces. The learner will practice drafting action plans and recommendations for the employer through an activity

The employer should conduct a workplace hazard assessment to select the most relevant Part Two training for members of the JHSC to become certified. Employers should conduct this assessment in consultation with their JHSC. For assistance in selecting relevant hazards for Part Two training, please refer to the JHSC Certification Employer Guidance material published by the MLTSD.

3.3 Refresher training

Refresher training includes:

  1. review of key concepts from Part One and part two training
  2. relevant updates to legislation, standards, codes of practice, and occupational health and safety best practices
  3. opportunity for certified members to share and discuss best practices and challenges

4. Training and other requirements to become a certified member

Section 7.1 of the OHSA provides the CPO the authority to establish standards for training programs required under the OHSA and its regulations, and to approve training programs that meet those standards.

There are several steps that must be fulfilled to become a certified member. The process to become a certified member and maintain certification status is outlined in the Training and Other Requirements document established by the CPO and included in Appendix B.

The Chief Prevention Officer (CPO) is advised when a member has successfully completed Part One and Part Two training. The CPO will then review the training received and may grant the member certification status. CPO established training and other requirements are set out in Appendix B for Part One, Part Two, and Refresher training.

Section 22.3 of the OHSA provides that the Minister of Labour, Training and Skills Development shall appoint a CPO to establish requirements for certification of persons for the purposes of the OHSA and to certify persons under section 7.6 who meet those requirements.

Section 7.6 of the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) gives the Chief Prevention Officer (CPO) the authority to establish training and other requirements that a Joint Health and Safety Committee (JHSC) member must fulfil to become certified. The CPO has the authority, to certify a committee member who fulfils those requirements, to amend those requirements, to establish conditions to maintain certification, to establish a validity period and to amend certifications.

On May 1 2020, along with the Joint Health and Safety Committee Certification Training Program Standard and the Joint Health and Safety Committee Certification Training Provider Standard the CPO established the training and other requirements a committee member must fulfill in order to become a certified member as of May 1, 2020. (see Appendix B).

5. Design

The training program must be designed to ensure that the learners meet the learning outcomes set out in this standard for Part One, Part Two or Refresher training.

The training program must meet the following criteria:

  1. compliance with adult learning principles:
    1. ensure learners know why they need to learn specific content, its relevance to them and their workplace
    2. relate learning to learners’ own experience in situations that simulate actual application in the workplace
    3. challenge learners using a variety of activities that allow opportunity for participation, feedback and interaction
    4. recognize limits of attention span and various ways that adults learn
    5. use realistic activities and tools to support transfer of learning to the workplace
  2. literacy level is appropriate for the learners
  3. content is accurate, current and all legal and technical information is referenced and verified;
  4. use of a variety of teaching aids such as audio-visuals, equipment, safety devices and measuring/monitoring equipment
  5. learner materials follow principles of instructional writing and good graphic design
  6. programs include a high degree of interaction between the learners and instructors or eLearning program, and must ensure active participation in the training through various activities
    1. eLearning may include: case studies, role play, assignments
    2. face-to-face and distance learning may also include group work, discussion groups, presentations

6. Delivery mode

Regardless of the delivery mode, all approved training programs must meet the requirements of this standard and the delivery mode must support the learner’s ability to achieve the applicable learning outcomes.

Learners have varying needs such as scheduling and location. As a result, a variety of delivery methods will be considered for approval. Face-to-face, distance learning, eLearning and the combination of both classroom and non-classroom delivery methods (blended learning) will be considered.

Minimum durations have been set for the training programs to ensure adequate time is available for program delivery.

6.1 Face-to-face learning

The minimum hours for training are:

  1. Part One training - three days (or 19.5 hours)
  2. Part Two training - two days (or 13 hours)
  3. Refresher training - one day (or 6.5 hours)

Class size must be between six (6) and twenty-five (25) learners to ensure effective participation and interaction. Training providers who anticipate it will be difficult to meet the target of six (6) to twenty-five (25) people per course must apply for an exemption to the Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development at the time of program application, stating that they will consistently have classes of fewer than six (6) people. Training providers must notify the Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development in the training provider annual report of instances when a minimum class size of six (6) was not feasible, for example in remote locations.

6.2. Distance learning

The minimum hours for training are:

  1. Part One training - three days (or 19.5 hours)
  2. Part Two training - two days (or 13 hours)
  3. Refresher training - one day (or 6.5 hours)

All distance learning requires the same minimum hours of training as face-to-face learning and must include plans for interaction with a qualified instructor.

6.2 1 Distance Learning – Technology Requirements

All distance learning programs should use appropriate technology and secure two-way audio/video interactive platforms. The platform should allow for flexibility to host multiple participants. It should also be easy to navigate and use and have the ability to form break-out rooms, so that in-class group work and problem-solving can be replicated. Learners should be easily able to access and participate in the class.

Distance learning programs should also include:

  1. Details on how learners who have difficulty accessing or using the platform will receive real-time support
  2. Details on what touch points the i nstructors will have with learners to maintain engagement
  3. Details on how learners  will be evaluated.                                                
  4. A description of the platform (for example, Zoom, ADOBE, etc.) that will be used to deliver the training
  5. A description of contingency plans for learners (connectivity issues); what supports will be made available to learners during the training.

6.3. eLearning

The minimum hours for training are:

  1. Part One training – two days (or 13 hours)
    • to facilitate learning continuity, eLearning training must be completed within a maximum of 30 days

Programs delivered entirely by eLearning will satisfy learners who prefer learning in a self-paced environment. In this context, eLearning is a wide set of applications and processes such as web-based learning and computer-based learning, typically delivered online through a computer or any other digital device. Learners using eLearning set their own pace and are not led in real time by a qualified instructor.

All eLearning components must meet the criteria in the eLearning Instructional Design Guidelines.

No eLearning or blended learning delivery is permissible for Part Two or Refresher training.

6.4. Blended learning

The minimum hours for training are:

  1. Part One training - three days (or 19.5 hours)
    • up to 6.5 hours of eLearning

eLearning combined with face-to-face learning is referred to as blended learning. Blended Learning describes the practice of using several training delivery methods in one curriculum. It typically refers to the combination of classroom instruction and any type of training that includes self-directed use of online capabilities, such as eLearning.

eLearning within a blended learning delivery will be permissible for up to one day (6.5 hours) of training of certain outcomes included in Part One training only. No eLearning or blended learning delivery is permissible for Part Two or Refresher training. For details on which learning outcomes for Part One training will be considered for eLearning please refer to Section 8.1, Part One Learning Outcomes.

All eLearning components must meet the criteria in the eLearning Instructional Design Guidelines. When a blended learning course is being designed, the two sections of the course must be well integrated. All blended learning requires the same minimum hours of training as face-to-face learning.

For blended learning, evaluation in the face-to-face part of the course must support and validate that the learning outcomes covered by the eLearning portion of the course have been adequately met by the learner.

7. Resource materials

Resource materials for instructors and learners include the following.

7.1. Learner materials

Materials for both face-to-face and distance learning must be provided to learners electronically and/or in hard copy as requested by the learner. Programs delivered by eLearning must include materials that can be referenced during and upon completion of the course (e.g. continued access to course materials, downloadable copies of course materials). Learner materials must:

  1. Clearly describe learning objectives, agenda, training content and evaluation/testing
  2. Clearly indicate the date and version of the materials
  3. Include at least:
    1. an agenda for each session
    2. participant manual
      1. Distance learning programs should include a document on rules and expectations when learning through distance, i.e., code of conduct, respect for other learners, etc.
      2. eLearning and distance learning programs should include information on technical requirements, availability of support and contingency plans for learners who have difficulty with access during the course.
    3. background and reference information
    4. terms and definitions
    5. worksheets for learning activities, exercises, role plays, and case studies
    6. job aids, tools and templates
    7. references to legislation, standards, and codes applicable to the training topic
    8. The Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA)
    9. Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development  Guide to the Occupational Health and Safety Act
    10. Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development  Guide to Joint Health and Safety Committees and Representatives in the Workplace
    11. Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) Regulation under the OHSA
    12. Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development Guide to WHMIS.

7.2 Instructor materials for face-to-face and distance delivery

Instructor materials must:

  1. Clearly describe learning outcomes and training content
  2. Clearly describe:
    1. lnstructional methods
    2. learning activities
    3. lesson plan timing.
  3. Include, at a minimum:
    1. lesson plans with detailed step-by-step instructions to guide the instructor through the lessons, including what materials will be used to deliver the topic, the instructional methods, the learning activities, timing, and equipment needed, if any
      1. For distance learning, these lesson plans should detail how learners can complete activities and how instructors can ensure transfer of learning
    2. presentation materials with speaker notes, such as PowerPoint slides, etc.
    3. answer sheets for the learning activities, exercises, role plays, case studies, and tests; and
    4. audio-visual resources
    5. technical and administrative support information for instructors and learners in distance learning platforms.

8. Learning outcomes

Joint Health and Safety Committee (JHSC) certification training is an outcomes-based program which means that certain knowledge and skills must be attained in order for a person to successfully complete the program.

For blended learning, the following Learning Outcomes only may be delivered for the eLearning portion of the Part One training:

  • 8.1.1
  • 8.1.2
  • 8.1.5
  • 8.1.6

8.1. Part One learning outcomes

Upon completion of Part One training, learners must be able to:

8.1.1. Describe the certification process and explain the role of the certified member

  1. Explain the certification process and provide an overview of the Part One, Part Two and Refresher training requirements.

8.1.2. Describe the importance of occupational health and safety and outline the roles of each of the workplace parties

  1. Explain why occupational health and safety is important for workers and employers. Describe the contribution of certification training to the goal of making Ontario workplaces as safe and healthy as possible.
  2. Outline the roles and responsibilities of the different workplace parties in achieving effective health and safety programs, practices, and performance. Describe how this relates to the Internal Responsibility System (IRS).

8.1.3. Identify occupational health and safety legislation, demonstrate how to access information from it, and explain the basic rights, responsibilities, and training requirements

  1. Describe the structure of the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA). Describe how to read laws, regulations, and standards, and practice finding information in the OHSA and regulations.
  2. Outline how the regulations, standards, codes, guidelines, policies, and collective agreements support and supplement the OHSA.
  3. Describe the following features of the OHSA and find relevant sections. Outline how these requirements are expressions of the IRS and how they work together:
    1. the rights and responsibilities of employers, constructors, workers, supervisors, directors and officers of a corporation, owners and suppliers
    2. the worker’s responsible exercise and management of the “right to know”, “right to participate”, and “right to refuse”
    3. an overview of the training requirements of the OHSA and its associated regulations
    4. the employer’s obligation to develop a health and safety policy and program, as well as a workplace violence and workplace harassment policies and programs
  4. Describe how supervisors, employers and workers may participate in Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development inspections and investigations.
  5. Describe methods of enforcement outlined in Part VIII of the OHSA (for example, Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development orders, stop work orders, etc.).

8.1.4. Describe the purpose, legal requirements for, and rights, duties, and function of JHSCs and describe how a functioning JHSC works

  1. Describe the purpose of the Joint Health and Safety Committee.
  2. Describe the legal requirements for establishing and maintaining a JHSC and find relevant provisions in the OHSA.
  3. Describe the rights, duties, and function of the JHSC and find references in the OHSA.
  4. Describe how JHSCs can develop and maintain effective communication, participation, teamwork, and problem-solving processes, and the merits of worker-manager co-operation in health and safety.
  5. Demonstrate group process and problem-solving skills by applying effective listening, participation, and co-operation techniques to an occupational health and safety problem using a JHSC role play, case study or exercise.

8.1.5. Describe the rights, duties and responsibilities of JHSC members and certified members

  1. Describe the rights, duties, and responsibilities of JHSC members and certified members and find references in the OHSA.
  2. Describe the responsible exercise and management of the right to stop work.
  3. Describe the circumstances in which a JHSC member or certified member interacts with the Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development.

8.1.6. Describe the categories of hazards and the basic process of recognizing, assessing, and controlling hazards, and evaluating the hazard controls

  1. Explain the following terms:
    1. hazard
    2. occupational injury
    3. occupational illness
  2. Explain what is meant by “recognize, assess, and control hazards, and evaluate the hazard controls”.
  3. Describe the legislated roles and responsibilities of the workplace parties in recognizing, assessing, and controlling hazards, and evaluating the hazard controls.
  4. Describe the hazard categories and give examples for each:
    1. physical
    2. chemical
    3. biological
    4. musculoskeletal
    5. psychosocial
    6. safety
  5. Identify and give examples of the five factors that can contribute to a health and safety hazard (people, equipment, materials, environment and process).
  6. Explain how a substance may exist as a gas, liquid, or solid, and how these states may be altered. Explain how they relate to the routes of entry to the body (inhalation, absorption, ingestion and injection).
  7. Explain the body systems that could be affected, and how these effects may be acute, chronic, local, systemic, latent or interactive.
  8. Introduce a Hazard Management Tool and describe how it is used.

8.1.7. Explain hazard recognition and the process for workplace inspections and identify the legal requirements

  1. Explain how hazard recognition is the initial identification of the potential for, or existence of, a hazard.
  2. Identify the legal requirements for workplace inspections by JHSC members under the OHSA and state the purpose of the inspection. In addition:
    1. List the information and tools needed to prepare for a workplace inspection
    2. Demonstrate how to conduct a workplace inspection and how to identify hazards during the inspection
    3. Describe how to prepare an inspection report for the JHSC and describe follow-up procedures
  3. Describe additional methods for identifying hazards such as:
    1. documenting worker concerns
    2. observation
    3. review of documents such as workplace records and WSIB or Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development reports

8.1.8. Explain the purpose of and describe basic methods for doing a hazard assessment

  1. Explain how hazard assessment helps to determine how serious a hazard is
  2. Describe how to assess health and safety hazards using methods such as:
    1. inspections
    2. investigations
    3. job-hazard analysis
    4. observations
    5. interviews
    6. measurement against a workplace or recognized standard
    7. determination of compliance with regulations or legislation
    8. comparison to other accepted standards and practices
  3. State the purpose of exposure monitoring. In addition:
    1. identify factors JHSC members should consider when present at the beginning of monitoring and when reviewing testing strategies and results
    2. identify regulations and standards for limits of exposure such as R.R.O 1990, Reg 833 Control of Exposure to Biological or Chemical Agents, Ontario Regulation 490/09 Designated Substances and the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists guidelines
    3. define the terms: exposure values, threshold limit value (TLV), time weighted average limit (TWA), short term exposure limit (STEL), and ceiling exposure limit (C)

8.1.9. Explain the purpose of, and describe basic methods of, hazard control

  1. Explain that hazard control is reducing or eliminating hazards
  2. Describe how health and safety hazards may be controlled (at the source, along the path, and at the worker)
  3. Explain the qualities of an effective control
  4. Describe five types of controls (elimination, substitution, engineering, administrative and personal protective equipment), explain the hierarchy of controls, and give examples of how they may be applied to health and safety hazards

8.1.10. Explain the purpose of the evaluation of hazard controls

  1. Explain the purpose of evaluating hazard controls.

8.1.11. Practice hazard recognition, assessment, and control, and evaluation of the hazard controls

  1. Practice hazard recognition, assessment, and control, and evaluation of the hazard controls through an activity using a Hazard Management Tool.

8.1.12. State the requirements for, and describe the processes for, reporting and investigating fatalities, critical injuries, work refusals, and complaints of dangerous circumstances

  1. State the legal requirements for reporting and investigating fatalities and critical injuries, work refusals, and complaints of dangerous circumstances
  2. Describe the need for thorough investigations and an effective reporting system.
  3. Describe the roles and responsibilities of the Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development, police, and workplace parties in an investigation
  4. Describe responsibilities of the workplace parties at the scene of an injury
  5. Using a case study, illustrate an effective investigation using:
    1. information gathering tools (for example, effective note taking)
    2. interviewing skills
    3. data analysis
    4. report writing
    5. follow-up recommendations and compliance schedules

8.1.13. Review and understand the legislative requirements for access to occupational health and safety information and demonstrate how to access typical sources of occupational health and safety information

  1. Describe the rights to information under the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA).
  2. List occupational health and safety resources and information available to the certified member, and discuss when experts should be consulted.
  3. Describe how to assess occupational health and safety information, and how workplace parties can stay current with changes to legislation and regulations.
  4. Identify sources of information on the occurrence of injury and disease (for example, workplace records, Workplace Safety and Insurance Board reports). Describe how this information can be used to identify problems and evaluate programs.

8.2 Part two learning outcomes

A Part Two program must include at least six hazards relevant to the committee member’s workplace.

Upon completion of Part Two training, learners must be able to:

8.2.1. Describe key concepts of Part One training including the process of how to recognize, assess and control hazards, and evaluate the hazard controls

  1. Review key concepts of Part One training including hazard recognition, assessment, and control methods, and evaluation of the hazard controls.
  2. Review the provincial hazard priorities and practice applying a hazard management tool to these priorities.

8.2.2. Apply recognition, assessment, control, and evaluation principles to each of the workplace hazard(s) selected for the training program

  1. Describe the hazard and how it may cause injury or illness.
  2. Identify the relevant legislation, standards and guidelines for the hazard.
  3. Describe how to recognize and assess the hazard.
  4. Describe ways of controlling the hazard.
  5. Describe ways of evaluating the hazard control(s).
  6. Using an actual workplace scenario, practice completing a Hazard Management Tool.

8.2.3. Create a draft action plan and recommendations for the employer on at least one hazard in Learning Outcome #2

  1. Using an actual workplace scenario, prepare an action plan to control at least one hazard.
  2. Using the action plan from 3a, prepare sample recommendations to the employer.

8.3 Refresher training

Refresher training will:

8.3.1. Review key concepts from Part One training and Part Two training

  1. Review rights, duties and responsibilities of JHSC members and certified members.
  2. Review the roles, duties, and responsibilities of workplace parties.
  3. Review the rights, duties, and functions of the JHSC.
  4. Review the concepts of hazard recognition, assessment, and control, and evaluation of the hazard controls and a Hazard Management Tool.
  5. Review any other applicable content from JHSC certification training as may be identified by the approved training provider or the Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development.

8.3.2. Describe changes or updates to relevant legislation, standards, codes of practice and occupational health and safety best practices

  1. Describe changes or updates, if any, to legislation, standards and codes of practice in the last three years.
  2. Describe new advances in occupational health and safety best practices, if any, in the last three years.
  3. Describe hazards that have emerged in the committee member’s workplace in the last three years.

8.3.3. Provide opportunity for learners to share JHSC best practices, and to discuss JHSCchallenges and potential resolutions

  1. Share a best practice based on the committee member’s experience as a JHSC member.
  2. Share challenges based on the committee member’s experience as a JHSC member.
  3. Brainstorm approaches to resolve challenges from 3b.

9. Learner evaluation

The approved training program must include a plan for the evaluation of learning that includes ongoing and final evaluation. Evaluation must demonstrate that the learner has met the learning outcomes in this Standard, and in addition, must meet the criteria in the Joint Health and Safety Committee (JHSC) Certification Training Provider Standard.

Approved training providers, instructors, and evaluators are responsible for evaluation of learners and determination of successful training program completion. Approved training providers must provide opportunities such as coaching or support to assist any unsuccessful participant to meet the training program outcomes. For eLearning, the final evaluation must identify and provide explanation for both correct and incorrect responses, with the opportunity to receive further feedback through interaction with a qualified evaluator.

There must be a variety of evaluation methods available to the instructor and/or evaluator which are appropriate to the learning outcomes. The evaluation plan must support ongoing evaluation.

9.1 Part one evaluation

A standardized evaluation, in a form acceptable to the Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development, must be completed by learners at the end of the Part One training. The learner must achieve a minimum of 75% to pass the Part One training program.

At least one hour must be allotted in all programs for the administration of the final evaluation.

The approved training provider is responsible for marking the final evaluation.

The program must also ensure that learners have the opportunity to receive feedback on their evaluation results.

9.2 Part Two evaluation

The approved training provider is responsible for developing and conducting the final learner evaluation. An activity, such as a case study (to evaluate the learner’s ability to complete a hazard management tool, draft a recommendation for the employer and create an action plan) must be included.

9.3 Refresher evaluation

The approved training provider is responsible for developing and conducting the final learner evaluation.

Appendix A: Glossary of terms - general

Approved training program
A training program that has been approved by the Chief Prevention Officer as meeting the standards set out in the JHSC Certification Training Program Standard established by the Chief Prevention Officer.
Approved training provider
A training provider who has been approved by the Chief Prevention Officer as meeting the standards set out in the JHSC Certification Training Provider Standard established by the Chief Prevention Officer.
Blended learning
Describes the practice of using several training delivery methods in one curriculum. It typically refers to the combination of classroom instruction and any type of training that includes self-directed use of online capabilities (American Society of Training and Development [ASTD] definition).
Distance learning
An educational situation in which the instructor and learners are separated by location. Education or training courses are delivered to remote locations via synchronous or real-time instruction.
eLearning (Electronic Learning)
eLearning is a wide set of applications and processes such as web-based learning and computer-based learning, typically delivered online through a computer or any other digital device.
Evaluator
A person who evaluates learners.
Face-to-face training
Usually refers to traditional classroom training, in which an instructor teaches a course to a room of training participants. The term is used synonymously with on-site training and classroom training and instructor-led training (slightly modified from ASTD definition).
Instructor
A person who delivers training programs.
Qualification
A skill, quality, or attribute that makes somebody suitable for a job, activity or task.
Subject Matter Expert
A person who has extensive knowledge and skills in a particular subject area (ASTD definition).
Training provider
An individual, sole proprietor, corporation or not-for-profit organization delivering training.

Appendix B: Training and other requirements

Section 22.3 of the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) provides that the Minister of Labour, Training and Skills Development shall appoint a Chief Prevention Officer (CPO) to establish requirements for certification of persons for the purposes of the OHSA and to certify persons under section 7.6 who meet those requirements.

Specifically, pursuant to section 7.6 of the OHSA, the CPO has the authority to establish training and other requirements a joint health and safety committee member shall fulfill in order to become a certified member. The CPO has the authority to certify a committee member who fulfils those requirements, to amend those requirements, to establish conditions to maintain certification, to establish a validity period and to amend certifications.

The CPO established JHSC Certification Training and Other Requirements that came into effect May 1, 2020 and replaced the standards established March 1, 2016. Those standards continue to be in effect until June 29, 2021.

Committee members who have been deemed to be certified by the CPO or certified by the CPO under the 1996 JHSC Certification Standards will maintain their certifications after June 29, 2021.

In accordance with the authority set out in section 7.6 of the OHSA, and effective June 30, 2021 , the CPO is establishing the following training and other requirements a committee member must fulfill in order to become or remain a certified member.

As of June 30, 2021, the CPO may certify committee members who fulfill the training and other requirements set out in either Part A or Part B:

A. General training and other requirements for committee members seeking certification

The committee member must meet the requirements set out in paragraphs A1-3:

  1. Complete a JHSC Certification Part One Training Program that:
    1. is approved by the CPO under subsection 7.1(2) of the Act as meeting the Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development Joint Health and Safety Committee Certification Program Standard, dated October 1, 2015, May 1 2020 or June 30, 2021 as amended
    2. is delivered by a training provider approved by the CPO under subsection 7.2(2) of the Act as meeting the Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development Joint Health and Safety Committee Certification Provider Standard, dated October 1, 2015, May 1, 2020 or June 30, 2021 as amended.
  2. Complete a JHSC Certification Part Two Training Program that:
    1. is approved by the CPO under subsection 7.1(2) of the Act as meeting the Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development Joint Health and Safety Committee Certification Program Standard, dated June 30, 2021 as amended, May 1, 2020 or October 1, 2015
    2. is delivered by a training provider approved by the CPO under subsection 7.2(2) of the Act as meeting the Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development Joint Health and Safety Committee Certification Provider Standard, dated  June 30, 2021 as amended, May 1 2020 or October 1, 2015
    3. provides training in a minimum of 6 hazards relevant to the committee member’s workplace
    4. is completed within 12 months of the date that the committee member completed a JHSC Certification Part One Training Program that met the requirements of paragraph A1
    5. transition: where, prior to May 1, 2020 the committee member completed a JHSC Certification Part One Training Program that met the requirements of paragraph A1 the JHSC Part Two Training Program referenced in paragraph A2 can be completed within 6 months of the date that the committee member completed a JHSC Certification Refresher Training Program, that:
      1. met the requirements of paragraphs C1 i-ii
      2. was delivered within 3 years of the committee member completing a JHSC Certification Part One Training Program that met the requirements of paragraph A1
  3. Take Refresher Training in accordance with the requirements and timeframes set out in Part C to maintain their certification.

B. Training and other requirements for committee members who have only completed Part One training under the 1996 JHSC certification training standards prior to March 1, 2016

Committee members who have successfully completed Part One training under the 1996 JHSC Certification Training Standards prior to March 1, 2016 may submit proof of successful completion of that training, and in addition, must meet the training and other requirements set out in paragraphs B1 -2:

  1. Complete a JHSC Certification Part Two Training Program that:
    1. is approved by the CPO under subsection 7.1(2) of the Act as meeting the Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development Joint Health and Safety Committee Certification Program Standard, dated June 30, 2021 as amended, May 1, 2020 or October 1, 2015
    2. is delivered by a training provider approved by the CPO under subsection 7.2(2) of the Act as meeting the Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development Joint Health and Safety Committee Certification Provider Standard, dated June 30, 2021 as amended, May 1, 2020 or October 1, 2015
    3. provides training in a minimum of 6 hazards relevant to the committee member’s workplace
  2. Take Refresher Training in accordance with the requirements and timeframes set out in Part C to maintain their certification

C. Refresher training requirement for all committee members certified under the training and other requirements established by the CPO, effective March 1, 2016 , May 1, 2020 and June 30, 2021

Committee members who have been certified by the CPO pursuant to a training and other requirements document previously established by the CPO and as set out in Part A or B above, must take Refresher Training in accordance with the following requirements and timeframes to maintain their certification:

  1. Subject to paragraphs C2-5, a certified member must complete a JHSC Certification Refresher Training Program within three years of being certified by the CPO; and thereafter, within three years of the date of successfully completing a JHSC Certification Refresher Training Program, that is:
    1. approved by the CPO under subsection 7.1(2) of the Act as meeting the Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development Joint Health and Safety Committee Certification Program Standard, dated October 1, 2015 , May 1 2020, or June 30 , 2021 as amended
    2. is delivered by a training provider approved by the CPO under subsection 7.2(2) of the Act as meeting the Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development Joint Health and Safety Committee Certification Provider Standard, dated October 1, 2015, May 1 2020 or June 30, 2021 as amended
  2. The member may apply for an exemption pursuant to paragraph C3 from the CPO, from the requirement to take JHSC Certification Refresher Training in accordance with paragraph C1, within 3 years of one of the following dates, as applicable:
    1. the date that the committee member became certified
    2. the date that the committee member last completed a JHSC Certification Refresher Training Program after becoming certified
  3. The CPO may grant an exemption from JHSC Certification Refresher Training to a certified member:
    1. who has applied for the exemption in accordance with paragraph C2
    2. who has served as a committee member within 12 months of applying
    3. who has not previously been granted an exemption by the CPO for JHSC Certification Refresher Training
  4. If an exemption is granted under paragraph C3, the certified member must complete a JHSC Certification Refresher Training Program that meets the requirements of paragraphs C1 i-ii within 6 years of one of the following dates, as applicable:
    1. the date that the committee member became certified
    2. the date that the committee member last completed a JHSC Certification Refresher Training Program after becoming certified
  5. At the time the CPO denies a certified member an exemption, the CPO may allow the certified member to complete a JHSC Certification Refresher Training Program within a specified period.
  6. Failure to complete the JHSC Certification Refresher Training requirements within the timeframes specified in paragraphs C1, C4 and C5 will result in the member no longer being certified.