Snow Removal Training & Certification - CANADA Hard Hat Training

Three Different Types of Trainings

Whether you want training and certification in as little as two hours with our online training or a more robust, customizable option like you get with our DIY training kits or on-site training, we can help you get the training certificate you need in the way you want it and at a price you can afford.

Online Training

Online is for those who prefer self-paced training from any location or for employers who need to assign and monitor employee training progress and exam scores. Online training is also eligible for bulk pricing discounts for groups of 16+ trainees.

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Training Kits

The kit is for those who want to do the training themselves. It’s a reusable training presentation that is used to train groups of people all at one time in one location. If you need to train a trainer to use the kit we offer a train the trainer online course.

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Train the Trainer

Train the trainer courses are online and meant to certify a single individual to use the training kit to train others. The kit is included with the train the trainer online course for no additional cost and is reusable. The result is a lifetime certification.

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What's in the Training?

Our safety training course is regulation-compliant, and our online version fulfills Canada’s classroom training requirement. Each class contains sections on weight, angles and stress, the center of gravity, sling hitches and types, and the hardware and lifting devices these workers can expect to work with.

This presentation includes intermittent practice quiz questions to prepare for the final written exam included with the course. In addition to the written exam, this course also includes a checklist for employers to use when administering a practical exam as required.

Though you will still need to familiarize yourself with all other applicable federal, state, provincial, territorial, and local standards, this training encompasses the following standards:

Canada Standards

ANSI/ASCA A1000-2014 – System Requirements for Snow and Ice Management Services
ANSI B71.3-2005 – Snow Throwers
ISO 8437-3:2019 – Snow Throwers – Safety Requirements and Test Procedures – Ride-On Snow Throwers
CAN/CSA-B352.0-09 – ROPS, FOPS (General Mobile Equipment)

Why Do I Need Training?

In line with regulations, anyone who works with or around heavy machinery must receive training prior to working on their own. While requirements for refresher training are very specific, most safety trainings don’t have such specific requirements. However it’s wise to follow the same guidelines.

When it comes to refresher training, Canada’s standard in some instances is very specific: operators must be re-evaluated every three years to see if they are still competent to operate the equipment. Best practices say to apply this same rule to all types of equipment. A so-called “free-pass” cannot be awarded based on experience, age, or time on the job. The extent of the evaluation is to be determined by the employer but should include a written and practical examination that proves continued competency.

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Stay Informed On All Things

Did You Know?

There are more than 500 snowblower amputations each year.

There are an average of 1,300 deaths related to hypothermia a year. (Source: CDC)

Nearly 76,000 people are injured in vehicle crashes during snowfall or sleet. (Source: DOT)

Safety Videos

Pregnant woman killed by snowplow Three deaths connected to shoveling snow

In the News

Sleepy snowplow driver crashes into Woodmere TJ Maxx Two school children injured after incident involving snowplow

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the safety precautions for shoveling snow?

Proper ergonomics are necessary for safe snow shoveling. Keep your knees bent and your back straight, and make sure that you lift with your legs. You should also lift smaller portions of snow at once than you would think. If you are not physically active, do a warm-up exercise before snow shoveling, or avoid shoveling altogether.

How do you plow snow safely?

Be mindful of everything that is around you. Pedestrians, other vehicles, and road-side objects like mailboxes all present hazards to snow removal vehicles. Know the size of your plow and avoid plowing too closely to hazards. Additionally, you should follow all traffic laws and regulations. When driving, maintain a distance of at least three vehicle lengths between yourself and other vehicles, and drive more slowly than you normally would.

What is one special danger of a snowplow?

Snowplow operators frequently operate specifically during dark, cold, and icy conditions. This is compounded with long hours and early call times. Operator stress and fatigue can lead to inattentiveness, which in turn can lead to disaster. Snowplow operators must ensure that they get adequate sleep and take breaks whenever needed.

Is black ice really black?

Black ice is actually translucent, so it is almost impossible to see it on roadways. Instead, it appears slippery and shiny. This hazard is one of the reasons that snow removal operators must drive slowly and cautiously. Make sure that all tires are clean and have sufficient tread to keep you safe while you operate.

Is a Safety Data Sheet required for material spreaders?

Yes. Anti-ice or de-icing substances contain chemicals that can be hazardous if misused. A Safety Data Sheet mitigates these dangers by detailing how to use the chemicals, as well as how to respond if an incident occurs.

Is carbon monoxide a greater danger in the winter?

Because more doors and windows are closed in the winter, carbon monoxide becomes a greater risk. Remember that you should never run a machine in an unventilated area, even for a short time. Also, make sure that you are keeping the exhaust of your vehicle free from snow build-up. A clogged exhaust will not be able to release carbon monoxide and will cycle it back into the vehicle.

What is the main cause of death when shoveling snow?

Heart attack. Cold weather constricts your arteries, causing your heart to work harder to keep blood pumping. This is why it is so important that you don’t overdo it while shoveling snow. Wear warm, moisture-wicking and wind-resistant clothing to help keep your body temperature regulated.