Learn about certificates
WorkSafeBC is implementing mandatory training for asbestos abatement workers to help keep you safe from the dangers of asbestos. As of January 1, 2024, anyone doing asbestos abatement work in B.C. will need to have certification from an approved training provider.
- Who needs a certificate?
- How to get certified
- Receiving full or partial credit for previous training
- For more information
Who needs a certificate?
If you do asbestos abatement work in relation to buildings, you need a certificate.
Asbestos abatement work means doing any of the following activities for the purpose of the abatement of asbestos in relation to a building:
- Identifying material that is or may be asbestos-containing material
- Collecting samples of material that is or may be asbestos-containing material
- Assessing the risk posed by material that is or may be asbestos-containing material
- Assessing the risk posed by working with or near material that is or may be asbestos-containing material
- Removing, repairing, transporting, or disposing of material that is or may be asbestos-containing material
- Planning or supervising any of the above activities
The level of certification you need depends on the type of asbestos work you will be doing.
Levels, scope of practice, and prerequisites
| Level 1 Foundational Awareness |
Scope of practice:
|
Prerequisites: None |
| Level 2 Asbestos Safety |
Scope of practice:
|
Prerequisites: Level 1 (unless the course combines both levels) |
| Level 3 Asbestos Safety Leader |
Scope of practice:
|
Prerequisites: Level 2 |
| Level S Surveyor Safety |
Scope of practice:
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Prerequisites: Level 1 (unless the course combines both levels) |
You can use this tool to help you determine which level you need: Do I need a certificate?
Level 1 is also recommended for those who do not need a certificate but who would benefit from general asbestos safety knowledge. For example, if you sometimes encounter asbestos-containing materials during your work (e.g., electricians, plumbers, HVAC contractors, flooring contractors) but are not an abatement worker, taking Level 1 training can help you learn how to work safely around asbestos.
How to get certified
To be certified, you must complete a training program from an approved provider and pass a written exam. For Level 2, a practical assessment is required before the exam. Exams for Levels 1 and 2 will be available in Chinese (simplified and traditional), Punjabi, Spanish, and Tagalog. Only training from a WorkSafeBC-approved provider qualifies you for a certificate.
You can find a list of approved providers here: Find training. Please contact training providers directly to learn more about their asbestos abatement training offerings, including dates, length of training, location, and cost.
Once you have successfully completed the training and passed the exam, you will be given your certificate, which will be valid for three years.
Receiving full or partial credit for previous training
Workers who are not certified in B.C. but have completed relevant asbestos abatement training (e.g., at an earlier time or in another province) may be eligible for reciprocity, equivalency, or recognition of prior learning.
Reciprocity is recognition of valid asbestos abatement certificates issued in another province (Alberta and Prince Edward Island). Workers who are eligible for reciprocity do not need to take our certification exam and/or practical skills test and and should contact Certification Services if they want to receive a Level 2 WorkSafeBC certificate.
Equivalency is recognition of apprenticeship programs in B.C. and training programs in other provinces (Ontario and Newfoundland and Labrador) that that meet the curriculum and/or practical skills standards required by WorkSafeBC. Workers who are eligible for equivalency must take our certification exam and, for Level 2 certification, our practical skills test. If you believe you are eligible for equivalency, contact a WorkSafeBC-approved training provider.
Recognition of prior learning is how we acknowledge courses offered by a WorkSafeBC-approved training provider that satisfy our training requirements but predate our certification requirement. If you believe you are eligible for recognition of prior learning, contact a WorkSafeBC-approved training provider.
For more information, see Reciprocity, equivalency, and recognition of prior learning for asbestos abatement workers.
For more information
To find information and resources about working safely with asbestos, visit our Asbestos page.
For updates about asbestos certification:
- Subscribe to receive email updates (select the “Asbestos certification and licensing updates” option)
- Read the current and past updates
You can also contact our Prevention Information Line if you have questions: 604.276.3100, or toll-free 1.888.621.7233.