Basic Chainsaw Program

The basic Chainsaw and Faller programs have recently undergone a complete review in partnership with CAGC, the BC Forest Safety Council, the BC Wildfire Service and WorkSafeBC. 


Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I get my Basic Chainsaw Certificate?

  1. Find a Level One - Basic Chainsaw Course - Register with the Instructor (QST).
  2. Attend and complete the 3-day Level One - Basic Chainsaw course. (8 hours in class and 16 hours in field for hands-on practical learning time.)
  3. Successfully complete the written (or verbal) exam. 

 

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

  1. Upon receiving a Level 1 Certificate, 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?

  1. The Level One – Basic Chainsaw Certificate 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 knowledge, demonstrating that you are still competent.
    2. If it is after your certificate has expired then you must redo the 3-day Level One – Basic Chainsaw course.

 

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

No, the online modules are a knowledge resource for students. CAGC does encourage students to register for the modules. 


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.