Third party training – Don’t be misinformed or misled

Due to recent activity surrounding false claims of ACSA endorsed third party trainers, we felt it very important to communicate the parameters around which we operate when it comes to working with third party training companies.

Firstly, the ACSA does not endorse any third party training. We may accept other Certifying Partner training, or another CFCSA member’s training (e.g. LSE) as an equivalent.

Secondly, we accept training that is endorsed by the industry leader in that subject. Such industry leading groups include:

• Fall Protection End User = Fall Protection Group
• Ground Disturbance = Alberta Common Ground Alliance (ABCGA)
• Confined Space Entry and Monitor = Oil Sands Safety Association (OSSA)

Unfortunately, many good people have spent good money on training that is not recognized by industry. Always ask a trusted and knowledgeable person at your ACSA before spending your hard earned money! Ultimately we want you, our members, to spend your training dollars wisely, and not be taken advantage of. Here are some tips for what to look out for:

1. Be mindful of the term ‘Awareness’ on a ticket. This generally means ‘basic information only’, and indicates there is no practical element.
2. Beware of any online ticket. Some are okay, such as Construction Safety Training System (CSTS), but it is almost always better to do the classroom training when offered.
3. Most tickets expire three (3) years after the issue date. Many will have an expiry date on them. Some have NO expiry, such as Generic Online Construction Orientations.
4. If the ticket looks fake/bad, it probably is. Use your best judgement and question it.You might also find it helpful to read this Work Safe Alberta Bulletin on ‘High Pressure Sales Tactics Providing Misleading Information About Workplace Training’ or simply contact your ACSA for advice at 1.800.661.ACSA (2272).