Questions and Answers

All cut-and-skid loggers in Ontario must  complete common core classroom training, receive on-site orientation (utilizing MTCU on-site orientation checklist documents) and  be registered in the Cutter-Skidder Operator Certification training program before they perform any work to which the training applies.

What are the minimum common core classroom training requirements of the Cutter-Skidder Operator Certification program?

The minimum requirement for chainsaw operators consists of one-and-half-days of classroom health and safety training modules drawn from OFSWA’s Professional Chainsaw Operation course. The minimum requirement for skidder operators consists of a half-day of OFSWA’s Professional Cable Skidder classroom training.    

What other training must the employer provide?

In addition to the common core classroom training, employers of cut-and-skid loggers must provide on-site orientation utilizing MTCU on-site orientation checklist documents and establish and maintain ongoing on-the-job training of workers registered in the program. The MTCU Cutter-Skidder Operator competency-based standards are used for the training until the employer feels the worker is ready for evaluation for certification. This can be after up to one year of work experience from the date of registration.

How does the signing authority process work?

The signing authority process requires a thorough interview by MTCU field staff, and evaluators who are authorized to verify the required worker skill areas must be on our list of approved trainers. Being on the list verifies that the evaluator has been certified in the Cutter-Skidder program, as well as OFSWA’s Professional Chainsaw Operation Train-the-Trainer program.

What’s new with the program?

As of April 1, 2009, revised guidelines for the Cutter-Skidder Operator Certification training program established a requirement for employers to provide an on-site orientation utilizing MTCU Cutter or Skidder on-site orientation checklist documents. The revised requirements are explained in detail in the Cutter-Skidder Operator, Program Guidelines PDF available on this web page.

For more information about the new training requirements, contact the Ministry of Labour at 1-800-268-8013 or our Consultant Trainer in your district.

Legislation
Program Guidelines
Program Guidelines Summary