Working at heights training in Ontario is a legal requirement and a life-saving investment. Falls from heights remain one of the leading causes of serious injuries and fatalities in workplaces across the province. Whether you’re a construction business, a maintenance company, or a subcontractor, ensuring your team is properly trained is not just best practice—it’s the law.
Why Working at Heights Training is Crucial in Ontario
The Ontario Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development (MLITSD) mandates that all workers exposed to fall hazards must complete CPO-approved (Chief Prevention Officer) working at heights training. This regulation applies to anyone working at elevation on a construction project, whether on a roof, scaffold, ladder, or platform.
This isn’t just a box to check. Proper working at heights training in Ontario can mean the difference between a safe job and a devastating incident. It equips workers with the knowledge and practical skills needed to prevent falls, use safety equipment correctly, and recognize hazards before they become threats.
What Does Working at Heights Training Include?
A certified training program in Ontario typically includes both theoretical and hands-on learning components to give workers a complete understanding of fall prevention.
Key Theoretical Topics:
Understanding types of fall hazards and fall protection systems
Reviewing Ontario’s occupational health and safety laws
Knowing workers’ and employers’ rights and responsibilities
Safety procedures for ladders, scaffolds, and elevated work platforms
Practical, Hands-On Components:
Proper fitting and use of a full-body harness
Setting up and connecting fall arrest systems
Identifying anchor points and tying off
Emergency procedures and fall rescue planning
Training usually spans one full day (about 6–8 hours), and each participant who completes the course receives a valid certificate that lasts for 3 years.
Who Needs Working at Heights Training in Ontario?
Any worker who may be at risk of falling from a height of 3 metres (10 feet) or more must be trained under Ontario’s Occupational Health and Safety Act. This includes:
Construction workers
Roofers and framers
Maintenance technicians
Window cleaners
Industrial contractors
Supervisors and employers are also responsible for verifying and maintaining training records for all employees exposed to fall hazards.
Legal Requirements & Compliance
Only training programs approved by the Chief Prevention Officer of Ontario are legally valid. If you hire a third-party provider, ensure they are listed as an approved provider by the MLITSD.
Employers are legally obligated to:
Provide working at heights training before workers begin elevated tasks
Maintain up-to-date training records
Ensure refresher training is completed every 3 years
Provide additional job-specific instruction where necessary
Non-compliance can result in fines, work stoppages, and increased liability in the case of an accident.
How to Choose the Right Training Provider in Ontario
Not all training is created equal. To get the most out of your investment and ensure full compliance, choose a provider that:
Is CPO-approved
Has qualified instructors with industry experience
Offers flexible scheduling (on-site or at training facilities)
Provides bilingual or language-specific sessions if needed
Supplies all safety gear and materials for the hands-on portion
The best providers also offer follow-up support, certification tracking, and reminders when it’s time for renewal.
Cost of Working at Heights Training in Ontario
Pricing can vary depending on your location, the provider, and the group size. On average, expect to pay between $120–$180 CAD per person for initial certification.
Some providers may offer group discounts for large teams or recurring clients. It's also worth checking whether your business qualifies for funding support or rebates under programs such as the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) Excellence Program.
Certification Renewal: Don’t Let It Expire
Your working at heights training certificate is valid for three years. To remain compliant, workers must take a refresher course before it expires. Refresher training focuses on practical, hands-on re-evaluation and updates workers on any new laws or safety procedures.
Missing this renewal window could mean removal from site work, rescheduling projects, or facing legal penalties. It’s essential to track expiration dates and enroll workers early in a refresher program.
The Real-World Impact of Proper Training
While compliance is the minimum standard, the true value of working at heights training lies in its ability to prevent tragedy. Every year, workers suffer life-altering injuries or death due to fall-related accidents—many of which are preventable.
Proper training fosters:
Awareness: Workers can identify and mitigate hazards before incidents occur.
Preparedness: Teams understand how to respond in emergencies, saving precious time.
Confidence: Employees feel more secure and efficient when they know how to use their equipment and protect themselves.
In high-risk environments, safety isn’t optional—it’s foundational. A strong safety culture begins with certified training.
Conclusion: Safety Starts with Training
Working at heights training in Ontario is essential for maintaining a safe, compliant, and productive work environment. It’s more than a legal requirement—it's a protective shield for your workforce and your business.
Don’t wait for an accident or a Ministry inspection to act. Whether you’re onboarding new hires or renewing certifications, ensure your team has the training they need.
Contact us today! Let’s get your crew certified, compliant, and confidently working at heights.