Workplaces across British Columbia rely heavily on mobile equipment — from forklifts and aerial lifts to telehandlers and pallet jacks. While these machines are essential to many operations, they also pose significant risks if not used properly. That is why mobile equipment operators in Campbell River must undergo training and certification in accordance with WorkSafeBC regulations and CSA standards.
Mobile Equipment Certification in Campbell River is offered by VIF Safety Training, a company that provides practical, compliant instruction delivered onsite by qualified professionals. For individuals and employers looking to meet certification requirements, understanding how to prepare is the first step toward a safer, more efficient work environment.
Below is a guide to help individuals get ready for their certification process with clarity and confidence.
Understand the Certification Requirements
Before beginning the training process, it is important to understand the legal requirements involved. In British Columbia, operators must meet the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation under WorkSafeBC, specifically Section 16: Mobile Equipment. This regulation clearly states that a person is not permitted to operate mobile equipment unless they have received proper instruction in its safe use.
As of September 1, 2021, training must comply with CSA Standard B335-15, which outlines how operators should be trained and when refresher training is required. Certification is not simply a one-time event; it requires understanding these expectations to maintain compliance over time.
Choose a Qualified Training Provider
Certification is only as valuable as the training behind it. Selecting a reputable training provider ensures that the instruction meets regulatory standards and provides relevant, practical knowledge.
VIF Safety Training, based in Campbell River, offers Mobile Equipment Certification programs conducted by experienced instructors. The lead instructor, Darrell Block, is a certified Ives trainer with over 18 years of mobile equipment experience. His background also includes roles such as Electrical Shop Supervisor and Lockout Coordinator, giving him a comprehensive understanding of safety and operations in industrial settings.
VIF Safety Training provides onsite certification, meaning instruction can be delivered directly at the workplace. This approach not only saves time but also allows the training to reflect the specific challenges and hazards of the actual job site.
Familiarize Yourself with the Equipment
Participants preparing for mobile equipment certification should have a basic understanding of the equipment they will be trained on. While prior hands-on experience is not required, familiarity with the controls, general functions, and operational environment can make the learning process more efficient.
The training at VIF Safety includes various types of mobile equipment, such as:
- Forklifts
- Telehandlers
- Scissor lifts
- Boom lifts
- Powered pallet jacks
Knowing which type of machine one will be working with helps focus the training and ensures that participants are receiving the most relevant instruction for their job role.
Take the Training Seriously
Though the training is practical and focused on real-world application, it is essential that participants approach it with a serious attitude. Mobile equipment, when operated improperly, can lead to severe injuries, fatalities, or costly damage to equipment and property.
The training emphasizes key safety concepts, including:
- Equipment inspection and maintenance
- Proper load handling
- Site-specific hazards
- Emergency response protocols
These are not just technical skills but also responsibilities tied directly to workplace safety and legal compliance.
Understand the Refresher Requirements
Certification is not permanent. Under CSA Standard B335-15, refresher training is recommended every three years to ensure that operators remain current with best practices and updated safety procedures.
This requirement is particularly important for employers to track, as failure to provide timely retraining can result in compliance issues. VIF Safety Training ensures that all participants are made aware of these timelines and provides follow-up services to support ongoing certification needs.
Prepare for Onsite Learning
Since the training is conducted onsite, participants should be prepared to engage with the equipment in a real working environment. This is an advantage, as it allows the instructor to address site-specific risks and tailor the training to the actual conditions of the job.
Those attending should be punctual, dress appropriately for the worksite, and be ready to participate actively in both the theoretical and hands-on portions of the course.
Conclusion
Certification for mobile equipment operation is a critical step in ensuring safety and compliance in today’s industrial workplaces. For those in Campbell River, VIF Safety Training provides a structured, standards-compliant certification process delivered by experienced professionals. Their practical, onsite approach and strong focus on WorkSafeBC and CSA standards make them a trusted choice for businesses and individuals alike.
To learn more about their services or to schedule Mobile Equipment Certification in Campbell River, visit the VIF Safety Training website today.
