CAGC

1. How do I get my Basic Chainsaw Certificate of Completion?

1. Find a Level One - Basic Chainsaw Instructor (QST) and enrol 
2. Complete the pre-course material and attend the 4-day Level One - Basic Chainsaw course.
3. Successfully complete the practical evaluation and the written (or verbal) competency conversation at the completion of the 4-day course. 

 

2. What does the Chainsaw course allow me to do?

1. Upon receiving a Certificate of Completion, the successful candidate will be allowed to:
   1. Limb and buck trees that have been fallen, or that have fallen and are laying at or below chest height.
   2. Buck/slash down standing trees less than 4 inches diameter at stump height.

 

3. Is there a time limit on the Certificate of Completion?

1. The Level One – Basic Chainsaw Certificate of Completion is valid for a three-year period from the date that the certificate was issued.  In order to renew the certificate, the candidate must do one of the following:
   1. Before the certificate expires contact a Level One – Basic Chainsaw Instructor and complete an assessment of skills and a competency conversation, demonstrating that you are still competent.
   2. If it is after your certificate has expired then you must redo the 4-day Level One – Basic Chainsaw course.

 

4. Am I required to take the online training first?

1. You will be required to either complete the online course or print and review the PDF version prior to the first day of the course.
   1. You will be assigned the training and given the option to print the PDF version a minimum of 2 weeks prior to the date of the Level One – Basic Chainsaw course.  You must have completed the required training prior to being accepted into the course.  
2. There will be a verbal or written assessment during the morning of the first day to assess your retained knowledge, prior to completing the course. (DO NOT have someone else complete the training for you as you may be dismissed from the class and forfeit your tuition, as there is not sufficient time to retrain you during the course.  You must have a minimum knowledge of the material presented in the online course to be allowed to complete the course)

5. Do I need my own equipment for the course?

1. Check with the Instructor (QST) as to what equipment is required, at this level most Instructors will have a minimum supply of equipment that you may be able to use during the course.  All Personal Protective Equipment you will be required to supply includes the following:

• Canadian Standards Association (CSA) approved safety boots with a minimum 8-inch ankle support (measured from the sole to the top of the boot.)
• Side impact hard hat
• Muff style hearing protection that is a minimum of 24 NRR (Noise Reduction Rating)
• Wire mesh screen that attaches to the muffs.

 

6. Where can I find out when a course is available?

1. Check with the list of certified Level One – Basic Chainsaw Instructor (QST) for and Instructor in your area.
2. Contact the Instructors to see when they might have a course available.