Working at Heights Training in Ontario is not just a legal requirement—it’s a life-saving necessity for individuals working in elevated environments. Whether you’re in construction, maintenance, roofing, or window cleaning, safety comes first. Ontario’s Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development (MLITSD) has made it mandatory for all workers on construction projects to be trained and certified before stepping onto a site. This blog walks you through everything you need to know about working at heights training in Ontario, including legal requirements, what the training covers, where to get certified, and how it helps reduce workplace injuries.
Why Working at Heights Training Is Mandatory in Ontario
Ontario enforces strict regulations when it comes to fall protection. Under Ontario Regulation 213/91: Construction Projects, employers must ensure that workers using fall protection systems are adequately trained. Since April 1, 2015, working at heights training became mandatory for construction workers, replacing basic fall protection training.
The law was updated to improve workplace safety and reduce incidents of falls, which remain one of the leading causes of injuries and fatalities in the construction industry.
Who Needs Working at Heights Training in Ontario?
If you are a worker on a construction project and may use any of the following, you need to be certified:
Fall arrest systems
Travel restraint systems
Safety nets
Work belts or harnesses
Elevated work platforms, ladders, scaffolds, or suspended access equipment
This applies to general labourers, roofers, electricians, steelworkers, and many more.
What Does the Training Cover?
Approved working at heights training in Ontario covers both theoretical and practical elements, including:
Theoretical Component
Rights and responsibilities of workers and employers
Identifying fall hazards
Types of fall protection equipment
Ladder and scaffold safety
Proper inspection and maintenance procedures
Practical Component
Harness fitting and adjustments
Using a fall arrest system
Anchor point selection
Rescue planning
The training is designed to be hands-on and interactive, giving workers real experience on how to prevent falls and use their equipment correctly.
How Long Is the Certification Valid?
Once completed, your working at heights certification is valid for 3 years. After that, you must complete a refresher course to maintain compliance.
Refresher training ensures workers stay updated on evolving safety procedures, legislation, and equipment usage.
WSIB and MOL-Approved Training Providers
To comply with Ontario regulations, your training must be provided by a WSIB-approved training provider that follows the Ministry of Labour’s standards. Training centers must be approved by the Chief Prevention Officer (CPO).
Always verify that your provider is on the Ontario Working at Heights Training Provider list, or you may risk invalid certification.
Benefits of Completing Working at Heights Training
Here are some compelling reasons why working at heights training in Ontario is crucial:
Legal Compliance
Avoid fines and stop-work orders by complying with safety laws.
Safety First
Learn how to spot risks and protect yourself and your team.
Higher Employability
Employers prioritize hiring workers with valid working at heights certification.
Reduced Insurance Premiums
Companies that maintain safety standards may benefit from reduced insurance costs.
Peace of Mind
Feel confident and prepared to work in elevated areas.
Online vs. In-Person Training: What Should You Choose?
While theory can sometimes be delivered online, practical training must be in-person. Full courses are often offered in-class to ensure you’re competent in real-life scenarios.
Some providers offer blended learning: theory online and practical on-site. However, you must ensure the course still meets MOL standards.
How to Choose the Right Training Provider
Choosing the right working at heights training provider in Ontario is essential for proper certification. Here’s what to look for:
CPO/WSIB-Approved provider
Certified and experienced instructors
Modern, well-equipped training facilities
Flexible schedules (weekdays/weekends)
Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
Fast certificate delivery (some offer same-day e-certificates)
Bonus: Look for providers that also offer group discounts or on-site training for large teams.
Cost of Working at Heights Training in Ontario
The cost generally ranges from $120 to $180 CAD for the full 8-hour course. Prices may vary depending on the provider, training location, and whether it’s a group or individual booking.
Some employers cover the cost for their workers, and in some cases, grants or subsidies may be available to help offset the fee.
When and Where to Take the Training
Courses are available across major cities in Ontario like Toronto, Ottawa, Mississauga, Hamilton, London, and more. Classes are held frequently—some daily—and many providers offer weekend sessions to accommodate busy schedules.
The sooner you take the training, the sooner you can legally and safely work on any construction project involving heights.
Final Thoughts: Stay Safe, Stay Certified
Working at heights training in Ontario is more than a compliance box to check—it’s your shield against risk and injury. Being equipped with the right knowledge and skills helps you stay safe, protect your coworkers, and contribute to a culture of safety in the workplace.
Don’t wait until it's too late or you’re removed from a job site due to missing certification.
Contact us today! Let’s get you or your team fully certified, confident, and compliant with Ontario's working at heights safety standards.