Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some answers to commonly asked questions. If you don’t see your question or answer listed here, contact us today!

General Questions

How many types of safety courses does AIP Safety provide?

We offer many safety courses, with some of our most requested courses being Confined Space Training: Awareness, Entry & Rescue, Fall Protection Training, Fire Extinguisher Training With Live Fire, H2S Alive Training, and Standard First Aid Level C with CPR and AED.

We have courses for construction, corporate safety, energy safety, industrial, occupational hygiene, oil and gas, and more. You can view a full list of our training courses here.

Which safety courses are best?

The ‘best’ safety course depends on industry requirements and what you need personally. Many industries have specific requirements for health and safety certifications. If you’re unsure what course(s) you need, contact us, and we’d be happy to help.

Is the certificate valid in other countries/provinces?

Some certificates will translate to other provinces, like the H2S Alive Training, for example. In other provinces, approval may be required from the authority within the jurisdiction to accept specific certifications.

How long does it take to complete a course?

It depends on the course. Some courses have more information to deliver, which will increase their duration. For example, we offer courses that take 4, 7, or even 8 hours and others such as Asbestos takes 16 hours to complete and HAZWOPER requires 40 hours.

How often are training courses released and updated?

Training courses are routinely reviewed, updated, and released for your training and education.

How much does it cost to register for an account?

Account registration is free of charge.

How do I get my certificate?

Once you’ve successfully completed the course and passed the test, your instructor will provide you with your certificate. If you’d like to request a replacement certificate, email admin@aipsafety.com

Courses

H2S Alive Training Course

What is H2S Alive?

The H2s Alive course is designed to train workers to identify H2S (hydrogen sulphide) risks, safeguard themselves, and perform basic rescue procedures during an H2S event. Participants will receive their certification once the course is completed.

How much time do I have to complete the coursework?

The allotted time for course completion is 8 hours.

How can I get customer support?

Customer support and other resources can be accessed by contacting our team directly. In addition, any questions or concerns you have about our courses, training, and services can be answered through this medium.

Can I take the course if my certification has expired?

Yes. If your certification has expired, you’re encouraged to take the course to gain a valid certificate.

Will I receive an H2S wallet card proving my certification?

Yes. Once you have completed the H2S Alive course, you will receive an H2S wallet card indicating your new credential and qualification.

How long is the certification period valid?

When you complete the course, your certification will remain valid for 3 years from the course completion date.

Is there a time limit on the exam?

No. You may take as much time as you need to complete the exam.

What do I need to score to pass the exam?

A score of 80% or above is considered a pass.

What if I fail the exam?

If you fail your H2S training exam, you can repeat it to get a passing score. There is no limit to the amount of times a student can take an ESC course to try and pass.

What happens after I pass the exam?

Upon completing the exam, you will be awarded a certificate in H2S Alive training in Calgary that will remain valid for 3 years from the completion date.

Is there any kind of practical skills test required to receive my certification?

Yes. You will need to know the best practices for:

  • H2S protection
  • H2S physical properties
  • Fundamental rescue procedures
  • How to use a self-contained breathing apparatus
  • Use of gas detection equipment
  • Rescue lift and drag exercises

All of these skills and more are covered in-depth within the course.

Do I need to be fit-tested to receive my certificate?

No. Once you complete the H2S Alive course you will receive your certificate.

Please note: Fit Testing is not included in the H2S Alive Course.

Can I purchase more than one course at the same time?

While you are welcome to purchase more than one course at a time, it is not recommended. Effective learning takes place with focus. And focusing can be difficult when your concentration is scattered across numerous training manuals. For this reason, it’s advisable to purchase (and complete) one course at a time before moving on to the next.

Forklift Training Course

Do I need a driver’s license to operate a forklift?

No. A driver’s license is not required to get a certification for or to operate a forklift.

How old do you have to be to drive a forklift?

It depends on the jurisdiction. Some areas specify that only competent and trained workers can operate a forklift. Other jurisdictions determine that 16 or 17 years of age is sufficient as long as an experienced driver is present. In other places, 18 years or older is the minimum operating age. Our 8 hour course is based on participants that do not have previous experience. We also offer additional driving practice with one of our experienced instructors, if requires.

How much does a forklift license cost?

Forklift licensing costs will vary. Certifications generally start at $50 and can go up to $200 for in-person training. However, this is more typical for independent forklift certifications than workplace training.

How long does it take to learn to drive a forklift?

AIP’s course is 8 hours long for new operators and 4 hours for experienced operators. We also offer additional driving experience with an experienced instructor following the training, if required.

Who should conduct the forklift safety training?

All forklift training, instruction, and assessments must be performed by an instructor with the required knowledge and experience to train workers and evaluate their competency.

What type of records or documentation must I keep?

Operator forklift training documentation should thoroughly account for what the training covered. Moreover, training documents should be validated by the signatures of the instructor who delivered the training and the trainee.

Is annual forklift safety training required?

No. Annual forklift training is not a requirement in Alberta, as certifications are valid for up to 3 years. However, regular training may be part of a company’s safety procedure, depending on the company.

Fall Protection Training Course

What is Fall Protection?

Fall protection is any type of planned system to prevent or minimize falls from heights. When explicitly used, the term refers to all measures, equipment, and devices used to prevent a fall in a work environment.

Do I need a Fall Protection Course?

Yes. The OH&S Code of Alberta requires workers to take a Fall Protection Course for the safety and well-being of workers performing tasks at elevated heights.

What topics are covered in the Fall Protection Training Course?

The Fall Protection Course covers numerous topics related to elevated worker safety. Some of these topics include:

  • Proper regulatory safety procedures
  • Equipment inspection
  • Fall arrest vs fall restraint
  • Correct use of systems and equipment
  • Introduction to anchor points and systems

Who needs to take Fall Protection Training?

Fall protection training applies to any worker (permanent or temporary) performing tasks at elevated levels.

Do Fall Protection Training Certifications Need Annual Renewals?

Your fall protection certification will expire after 3 years. Annual certification renewal is not mandatory but it is recommended.

Can I take Fall Protection Training Online?

Yes. AIP understands that gathering an entire workforce to a single location at the same time can be challenging. That’s why all our training courses (Fall Protection included) are available online in an ‘offsite format.’ Fall Protection Blended is available. A portion of the course is offered online, once completed you attend our AIP location to complete the assessment portion.

Confined Space Training: Awareness, Entry & Rescue Level 1 & 2 Course

Who needs Confined Space Awareness Training?

Awareness level training is for those working in a workplace defined as a Confined Space. The employer must ensure the confined space awareness training is sufficient to safeguard the health and safety of the employees in the confined space.

How do I go about entering a Confined Space?

Without the proper precautions, confined spaces can be hazardous areas to enter. Using the Lockout and Tagout processes can be helpful to minimize risk. A comprehensive batch of Confined Space procedures and entry permits must be completed prior to entry.

How often must workers be trained in Confined Space entry?

The Confined Space Entry certificate is valid for 3 years.

What training records must be retained for Confined Space training?

Employers should keep written documentation of employee training and education to ensure evidence of regulatory compliance.

How long will it take me to complete the Confined Space training course?

Confined Space Awareness, Entry & Rescue Level 1 & 2 is an 8 hour course.

What is Confined Space Entry Training?

Confined Space Training in Calgary is a course that provides the knowledge required to recognize, evaluate and manage confined space hazards. The course standards are based on the best safe work practices while working in confined or constricted areas.

Should I take General Industry or Construction Industry Confined Space Entry Training?

The short answer is both. Each training program offers knowledge and workplace best practices to ensure a safer work experience.

What topics are covered for General Industry Confined Space Training?

Various topics will be covered during your General Industry Space Training. Some of these include:

  • Employer, contractor, supervisor, and worker responsibilities and obligations
  • How to identify a confined space
  • What potential hazards to be aware of in confined spaces
  • Authorization systems for confined spaces
  • Confined space entry and work preparation
  • How to work safely in confined spaces
  • Emergency contingency plans for confined spaces

What topics are covered for Construction Confined Space Training?

Construction Confined Space Training covers many valuable touchpoints that will serve your staff well in the field. Some of these topics include:

  • Entry supervisor duties
  • Reasons for fatalities in confined spaces
  • Conditions for a hazardous atmosphere
  • Training and awareness fatality statistics
  • Applicable regulations
  • General requirements
  • Easy-to-understand rules for permit spaces
  • Entry procedures and responsibilities
  • Equipment essentials

Can I take Confined Space Training Online?

Yes, you can! We offer an online Confined Space Pre-Entry Awareness (Awareness Only Training) course you can take in the comfort of your own home.

Standard First Aid Level C with CPR and AED Course

What is CPR?

CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) is a two-step chest compression, rescue breath procedure delivered to a victim in cardiac arrest. The heart ceases pumping blood in cardiac arrest, and the victim (now in Ventricular Fibrillation, or VF) requires CPR and a heart shock known as Defibrillation. Administering CPR can buy time by supplying the brain and heart with small quantities of blood until regular heart function is resurrected.

What is an AED, and why do I need to know about it?

AED is an acronym for Automated External Defibrillator, a user-friendly portable device that produces a shock to patients who lack a heartbeat and aren’t breathing. A knowledgeable responder uses AED units to dramatically boost these patients’ survival rates because early intervention is paramount.

How do I enroll in the course?

Simply select an available class time, fill in your personal information, view the order details, and confirm your seat. Alternatively, you can call our office and one of our Admin team members will assist you.

What do I need for the course, and what type of dress code is best?

We supply everything you’ll need for the certification process; we recommend you wear comfortable clothes that are suitable for floor-based skills.

How long does the course take to complete?

The Standard First Aid Level C with CPR and AED Class typically takes 16 hours to complete and is covered over 2 days.

Energy Safety Canada Fall Protection Course

How long does an ESC certification last?

Once you complete and pass your training (a pass is considered 70% or better), an ESC course yields a Certificate of Completion, which retains a 3-year validation.

Can I take my ESC training online?

No. AIP only offers ESC courses in a classroom.

How do I reprint my ESC certificate?

If your certificate is lost or damaged, you must request a replacement ticket by contacting Energy Safety Canada directly at CustomerService@EnergySafetyCanada.com

Who can take ESC training and what are the benefits?

Regardless of the kind of job site you’re on – whether temporary or permanent, big or small – this course applies to you if you’re a:

  • Construction worker
  • Electrician
  • Steelworker
  • Plumber
  • Warehouse worker
  • Any type of labourer

Who should conduct the ESC training?

An ESC training course should only be conducted by a Certified Energy Safety Canada instructor.

What will I learn from the Energy Safety Canada Fall Protection Course?

This course was created to teach you the fundamentals regarding safe fall protection procedures, including (but not limited to):

  • Facts, figures, and data points for fall accidents
  • Supervising bodies that create and ensure the rules are adhered to
  • The underlining dynamics of fall protection
  • The systems for fall protection safety
  • How fall protection methods are developed
  • The components of fall arrest systems
  • Clearance & freefall estimations
  • Equipment analysis
  • Trauma suspension
  • How to perform a safe rescue

Flagging & Traffic Control Training Course

What are the physical requirements/demands of a flagger?

The job requires long periods of being on your feet and performing duties such as cleaning garbage and transporting traffic cones. Moreover, flaggers must be vigilant and capable of anticipating possible safety hazards so they can prevent them.

What documentation do I have to submit for my Traffic Control Training Course certification?

No documentation is required to submit for your Traffic Control Training Course certification.

How long is the online Flagging & Traffic Control Training Course?

This is a 4 hour classroom course.

How can I become a flagger?

There are many skills you must develop and steps you must take to become a flagger, including:

  • Find a certification course or program
  • Undergo and complete your training/education
  • Pass the exam to get certified
  • Develop strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • Learn active listening

How do I register for a Flagging & Traffic Control Training Course?

You may register for a Flagging & Traffic Control Course simply by signing up for the next training class. If classes are unavailable, you can contact us directly for more information.

Certified Fit Tester Training Course

How many Fit Test categories are there?

There are three fit test categories: clearance fit, transition fit, and interference fit.

How long is the Fit Tester Training course?

To become a certified Fit Tester, you must complete the 6.5-hour Certified Fit Tester training.

How can I sign up for the Fit Tester Training course?

To sign up, visit our fit tester training course page and select the dates that work best for your schedule, fill out your details, and submit your application. Or you can call us at (403) 202-2477.

What Fit Tester Training topics are covered?

The course touches on potential inhalation hazards, the various respirator types and their applications, the proper way to fit test a respirator mask, and respirator care and maintenance.

How long is a Fit Tester Training certification valid?

Upon completion of the course, the certificate is valid for 2 years.

Bear Awareness Course

How many Bear Awareness Safety Training courses are available?

We offer two Bear Awareness Safety Training courses: Train the Trainer – Bear Safety Training and Bear Awareness.

Is Bear Awareness Training available online?

Yes, we offer Bear Awareness Courses online for your convenience. Bear Awareness Blended is available. A portion of the course is offered online and, once completed, you attend our AIP location to complete the assessment portion.

What kind of content is taught in the Bear Awareness Training Course?

Our Bear Awareness Safety Training course teaches fundamental defence methods, including how to respond in a confrontation, bear behaviour, etc. This course is geared towards individuals working, living, or exploring regions inhabited by bears.

Why should I take Bear Awareness Safety Training?

The Bear Awareness Safety course is a necessity for workers who may be exposed to human-wildlife confrontations. This course is used by employers to train and educate their workforce who perform outdoor jobs close to bear habitats. It’s also a good course to take if you frequent the outdoors for hikes, snowboarding, skiing, and other activities.

How long does it take to complete the bear awareness course?

This course is a 4-hour program designed to provide people with knowledge regarding bear escape, understanding, and identification.

Scissor Lift (PM) Course

What is Scissor Lift Safety?

A scissor lift is a machine designed for moving workers and equipment in a vertical motion. These lifts are used for many applications that typically require a tower, ladder, or even scaffolding.

Who should take the scissor lift course?

Those who work from elevated heights on a scissor lift must be trained and educated by the Scissor Lift Course.

What is covered in the Scissor Lift Course?

Topics covered include:

  • OH&S regulations
  • The skills needed to become a professional operator
  • How to safely operate the aerial lift
  • The safety rules & responsibilities for operating an aerial lift
  • Inspections and preventative maintenance
  • Correct fall protection procedures for aerial lift operations
  • Assessment of hazards recognized in different circumstances
  • The necessity of a Safety Attitude

How do I sign up for the scissor lift course?

To sign up, simply visit our scissor lift course page. Or you can call us at (403) 202-2477.

How long is the Scissor Lift (PM) course?

The course takes 4 hours to complete.

OSSA to ESC Transition Questions

What changes happened to the OSSA courses due to the merger?

Accompanying the merger, ESC worked to transition all OSSA programs to ESC programs, with the first course being released in November 2019. January 2021 saw all OSSA programs fall under the ESC umbrella. The merge hasn’t impacted OSSA certification and will remain valid until the expiry date.

Are the programs provided by ESC different from OSSA?

While the course content may have some minor differences, the process of certification remains the same.

I have certification from OSSA; is it still valid?

Yes, your OSSA certification will retain its validity until the expiry date, at which point you’ll be required to recertify via an ESC program.

How long is an ESC certification valid?

The time of validity fluctuates based on the specific course. View the list of courses below for the duration of each certificate:

  • ESC Mobile Elevating Work Platform (MEWP) – 3 Years
  • ESC Fall Protection – 3 Years
  • ESC Confined Space Entry and Monitor – 3 Years
  • ESC Common Safety Orientation (CSO) – Does not expire
  • ESC Fire Watch – Does not expire

What separates an ESC and an OSSA certification?

 OSSA certifications were issued before the merger and for a certain time during the change, and all OSSA certifications remain valid until the date of expiration.

My OSSA certification doesn’t expire. Will I have to recertify with an ESC course?

All OSSA certifications will remain valid. Recertification isn’t currently required; however, that may be subject to change at some point.

OSSA to ESC Course-Specific Questions

What’s the difference between CSO and BSO?

The Common Safety Orientation (CSO) is a new program created by ESC (Energy Safety Canada) to replace the BSO (Basic Safety Orientation) and the EGSO (Electronic General Safety Orientation), and the PST (Petroleum Safety Training). CSO is a singular safety orientation for new employees in the oil and gas field. It introduces them to workplace safety best practices. Seeking to eliminate duplicate training, employees taking this program can move between job sites easily.

What is CSTS? And is it the same course as the CSO?

The CSTS (Construction Safety Training System) is a course developed by the ACSA (Alberta Construction Safety Association). The program functions as a broad construction site orientation for new workers in the field of construction. Both CSO and CSTS are orientation-level studies. However, they are completely different courses.

Are there any conditions for the MEWP (Mobile Elevating Work Platform) course?

Yes. Taking the ESC MEWP course requires the completion of the ESC Fall Protection course. You must be able to provide certification from this program.

Is online training available?

Yes. However, you must purchase the course directly from ESC. Also, ensure you have access to a reliable computer, strong internet connection, speakers, printer, microphone, and webcam.

How long is the course?

The length of the course is based on the training topic. For example:

  1. The ESC Elevated Work Platform is 8 hours. The topics covered include:
    • Hazard assessment
    • Safe operating procedures
    • Emergency controls, etc
  2. ESC Confined Space Entry/Monitor is 8 hours. The topics covered include:
    • Monitor basics
    • Codes of practice
    • Working in different environments
  3. ESC H2S Alive is 8 hours. Topics covered include:
    • Hydrogen sulphide properties
    • Potential health hazards
    • Possible H2S locations
  4. ESC Fall Protection is 8 hours. Topics covered include:
    • Protection fundamentals
    • Hazard identification/elimination
    • Methods of fall arrest
  5. ESC Fire Watch is 4 hours. Topics covered include:
    • Fire watch planning
    • Fire and extinguisher categories
    • Correct fire extinguisher function
  6. CSO (Common Safety Orientation) is 3-4 hours. Topics covered include:
    • Personal accountability
    • Life-saving regulations
    • Job site upkeep
    • Standard workplace best practices

Should I bring anything with me?

All ESC courses will require a valid government-issued ID. The MEWP program requires proof of valid ESC or OSSA Fall Protection training, steel-toe construction boots and correct work apparel for outdoor evaluations. Even though loaner sets are available, you should bring your personal harness/lanyard and hard hat, hi-visibility vest, eye protection glasses and work gloves.

How do I get a certificate reprint?

You can contact the original training provider for certificates issued by OSSA. For Energy Safety Canada, you can visit their website and follow the instructions there or reach out to them directly via email at CustomerService@EnergySafetyCanada.com.

Does a certificate reprint incur a fee?

Yes. Please get in touch with your original OSSA training provider or ESC for additional information.

How does my employer validate my training?

Employers ensure certification authenticity via the ESC online validation tool. For more information, please email CustomerService@EnergySafetyCanada.com or call 1-800-667-5557.

Do you offer training for other ESC programs?

Yes, we offer ESC H2S Alive training (formerly known as Enform).