Online Occupational Health And Safety Courses In Canada

Online Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) courses in Canada are more than just certificates—they are critical tools that empower workplaces to prevent injuries, create a culture of safety, and comply with provincial, territorial, and federal regulations. The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) affirms that “providing credible information about workplace hazards and conditions” is essential to protect workers and employers alike. As industries evolve, there is a growing demand for accessible, flexible training—a demand met increasingly by online delivery modes. This article explores what courses are available, key institutions, and how to enroll.

What Are Online OHS Courses?

Online OHS courses are digitally delivered training programs covering workplace hazard identification, risk management, compliance laws, emergency procedures, ergonomics, mental health, and industry‑specific safety topics. They range from free awareness modules to certificate and diploma programs recognized by national bodies like the Board of Canadian Registered Safety Professionals (BCRSP). They can fulfill continuing education or fulfill licensing requirements for safety officers, supervisors, or managers.

Top Online OHS Courses and Providers in Canada

1. Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS)

• Offers nearly 100 online e‑courses covering topics like Harassment and Violence Prevention, Fatal Hazards, Hazardous Materials (TDG), and Mental Health Awareness.

• Mix of free awareness courses (no certificate) and paid courses ($15–$109), providing recognized completion certificates.

• Federally‑regulated sector training includes Hazard Prevention, Investigations, and Workplace Committees courses.

2. Canadian Red Cross

• Self‑paced OHS modules covering confined space, lockout/tagout, WHMIS, PPE, and healthcare‑inserted context (e.g., bloodborne pathogens).

• Fully WCAG‑compliant, interactive, and provides e‑certificates on completion.

3. 360Training Canada

• Offers a wide range of industry‑specific courses (construction, heavy equipment, forklift, boom truck, diesel, chainsaw) in fully self‑paced formats.

• Access global compliance training with up‑to‑date content tailored to Canadian regulations.

4. University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) – OH&S Online Certificate

• 300‑hour certificate, CRST‑eligible (Canadian Registered Safety Technician).

• Core modules include OHS Fundamentals, Legislation, Hazard Analysis, Ergonomics, and Emergency Planning.

• Priced at $4,950 or $765 per course.

5. Algonquin College – Occupational Safety and Health Competency Certificate

• Ontario‑focused college certificate, part‑time online.

• Prepares graduates for roles protecting workplace safety across sectors, with flexible course‑by‑course intake.

6. BCIT – Certificates and Diplomas in OHS

• Offers Associate Certificate and Advanced Certificate online; also full-time diploma available.

• Associate certificate meets CRST academic requirements.

7. Herzing College – Occupational Health and Safety Officer Diploma

• 12‑month fully online diploma aligned with BCRSP certification pathways.

• Helps graduates qualify to write CRST or CRSP exams.

8. University of Alberta – OHS Certificate Programs

• Flexible, asynchronous certificate programs in both Fundamentals and Advanced OH&S, ideal for professional upskilling.

9. Additional Programs

• Durham College (online certificate in health and safety in the workplace).

• Okanagan College, University of Calgary, and Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson) all offer online OHS certificate/diploma streams.

Course Structure, Duration, and Cost

How and Where to Enroll

Enrollment steps vary by provider, but generally:

1. Visit program webpage: Use the institution’s official site—e.g., CCOHS, Canadian Red Cross, 360Training, UNBC, Algonquin, BCIT, Herzing.

2. Check eligibility and prerequisites: For example, UNBC and BCIT require either a high school or university diploma + relevant professional experience in safety.

3. Register online or apply for college programs: Most programs offer self‑registration; degree/diploma courses may require submitted transcripts and references.

4. Pay tuition or sign up for free modules.

5. Study and complete assessments; e‑certificates issued upon successful completion.

6. Track progress toward CRST/CRSP eligibility: Verify which courses meet Board requirements. The BCRSP requires a two‑year diploma + four years’ relevant experience plus an exam to become a CRSP.

7. Order transcripts and certificates for professional use and compliance records.

Career Benefits and Professional Credentialing

• Enhance credibility: Credentials help employers verify an individual’s ability to manage hazards, inspections, training, and incident responses.

• CRSP Pathway: Most recognized programs (UNBC, BCIT, Herzing, UAlberta) align with CRST/CRSP eligibility—Board of Canadian Registered Safety Professionals requires a relevant diploma and a minimum of four years’ experience.

• Regulatory compliance: Federally regulated workplaces require specific training in areas like WHMIS 2015. Provincial courses (Ontario, BC) also provide compliance evidence.

• Flexible learning: Online formats accommodate working professionals, remote workers, and busy schedules.

• Technical and mental health focus: Modern OHS emphasizes prevention, investigation, ergonomics, psychological safety, and environmental sustainability. CCOHS offers modules on mental health, stress, and organizational safety culture.

People Also Ask

What are the best online OHS courses in Canada?

The “best” depends on your goals. If you want quick workplace training, CCOHS and the Canadian Red Cross offer high‑quality, budget‑friendly options. If you’re pursuing certification (CRST/CRSP), UNBC, BCIT, Herzing, Algonquin, Durham, Alberta, and Toronto Metropolitan University offer structured programs recognized by BCRSP.

Are these courses recognized nationally?

Yes—diploma and certificate programs from accredited post‑secondary institutions satisfy the national BCRSP educational requirement for CRST/CRSP certification. Awareness modules are for compliance and continuous professional development.

How much do OHS courses cost?

Costs range widely—from free awareness modules to college certificate programs costing CAD 1,000–5,000, or professional diplomas up to CAD 7,695+.

How long does it take to complete online OHS?

Short modules take 30 minutes to 3 hours. E‑courses can be done anytime. Certificate programs typically require 6–18 months part-time. Diplomas can be completed in 12 months to 2 years.

Is WHMIS training included?

Yes. CCOHS, Canadian Red Cross, and many college programs include WHMIS 2015 training, meeting mandatory federal requirements.

Conclusion

Online Occupational Health and Safety Courses in Canada offer flexible, accredited, and practical learning paths for anyone—from entry-level workers to seasoned safety professionals.

• For immediate workplace training, begin with CCOHS or Canadian Red Cross modules.

• For CRST/CRSP professional advancement, enroll in structured certificate/diploma programs from UNBC, BCIT, Herzing, Algonquin, Durham, Toronto Metropolitan, or UAlberta.

• Leverage course alignment with national standards like ISO 45001, WHMIS 2015, and BCRSP certification paths.

Take‑Action Checklist

• Choose your goal (awareness, technician, safety officer).

• Check course cost, delivery format, schedule, and certificate outcome.

• Confirm recognition by BCRSP or provincial regulation.

• Apply or self‑register, pay tuition, and start learning.

By selecting and completing the right course, you not only enhance your career prospects but also contribute significantly to safer, compliant, and healthier Canadian workplaces.

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