Faller 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.
The Oil and Gas industry in Canada has adopted the BC program to be used throughout the industry and promote transferability and mobility among workers and sectors.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who Administers the Falling Program?
In British Columbia, WorkSafeBC has approved three Administrators to train Fallers. They are:
- The BC Forest Safety Council – production harvesting
- The BC Wildfire Service (provincial government agency)
- CAGC- Oil and Gas (seismic)
The Oil and Gas industry in Canada has adopted the BC program to be used throughout the industry and promote transferability and mobility among workers and sectors.
2. How do I become a Faller?
There are several steps in the process to receiving your Certificate of Qualification - Faller:
- Must have completed the Level One – Basic Chainsaw course and received a Certificate of Completion – Basic Chainsaw; and
- Completed a minimum of 25 days of verified field work as a Basic Chainsaw Operator (Bucker); and
- Applied and completed the Level Two – Faller Entry Level (5-day course); and
- Worked as a Faller Trainee under the direct supervision of a Faller Tutor or QST. Must have completed 15 weekly reports with the last five reports meeting all of the safety objectives; and
- Successfully complete the final assessment including Competency Conversation (knowledge test) and Practical evaluation; and
- All of the above evidence will be reviewed, and a decision made as to address any skills or knowledge gaps or issue a Certificate of Qualification - Faller.
- If gaps are identified any reassessment is only on the gaps in skills or knowledge.
3. How do I know when a Faller course is offered?
Contact CAGC for course schedules.
4. What if I have experience falling do I qualify to take the Faller Challenge?
This will depend if WorkSafeBC will allow Challenges. This should be known later in 2021.
5. What is the difference between a Certificate of Qualification – Faller and being Qualified?
Qualification
An evidence based recognition of meeting the outcomes of a program.
Qualified
The ongoing legal requirement that an employer or supervisor ensures, that as long as the worker is in their employ, has the necessary knowledge and skills to work safely in the environment they are in.
6. During the training period can I move between approved Administrators?
Yes. Contact the relevant Administrator (CAGC) who will transfer your records to the new Administrator.
7. How do I pay for my course?
Contact CAGC to arrange payment. Payment options are credit card or e-transfer.
8. What must I bring to the Faller course?
Government issued ID and equipment identified in the Faller equipment list.
9. How long do I have to finish my training?
Within the first 5 years preceding the level two course.
10. How do I become a Faller Tutor?
- During a competency check you must achieve a high level of competency and have the QST III recommend you for Faller Tutor
- Must have a signed Letter of Reference from an Owner or Supervisor
- Must have a minimum of 5 years’ experience (days that make up a year will be determined with the chainsaw committee at the next meeting)
- Complete the application
- Must meet the outcomes of the new Faller Program and have assisted with coaching and mentoring a Level Two – Faller Entry course.
11. What equipment is required for the Faller course?