Ministry of Labour recognized Chainsaw Certification.
Hosted by Huronia past-president Craig Drury at his farm near Crown Hill. 669 Penetanguishene Road, just a bit north of Highway 11, Barrie.
This one-day Safety Awareness Training is designed to introduce domestic operators to core safety concepts, hazard recognition, and best practices. The session is interactive and discussion-based. Students will be encouraged to take personal notes (no workbooks will be provided).
Participants will receive a Workshop Participation Certificate confirming attendance and engagement in the training.
Important Notice: This course is for awareness and educational purposes only. It does not include formal testing, skills verification, or competency validation and does not provide the documentation required to meet workplace or regulatory training requirements
Bring your own saw and equipment if you have it (see next page for details), otherwise let Craig know and we can supply you with what you might need for the day.
Beginners are also most welcome (might as well “get started correctly”).
Huronia Chapter members: Your cost: $175 plus $22.75 HST = $197.75
Non-Huronia members: cost for the day is $275.00 plus HST ($35.75) = $310.75
(Pay on-site on training day: cheques payable to “Huronia Woodland Owners Association”).
Only 15 spots open! You must pre-register with Craig Drury:
craig.drury@vermeercanada.com
Instructors are Bob Smith and Jennifer Carroll, both of whom are excellent and experienced instructors, as attested by many (and they taught our April 2025 course!).
Course Details:
- ½ Day theory, ½ Day practical
- Includes Training workbook, and certificate upon successful completion; valid for 3 years and recognized by Ministry of Labour
- Reviewing OHSA and relevant safety regulations
- Breakdown of personal protective equipment utilization and selection
- Anatomy of a chainsaw; including safety features and ergonomic features
- Pros and cons between gas and battery equipment
- Understanding chainsaw reactive forces
- Daily and routine manufacturer maintenance schedules
- Skills development in manufacturers starting procedures
- Balanced Body Positions for safe operations
- Standard operating procedures in basic limbing, bucking and ground pruning
- Standard operating procedures for felling techniques of trees under 6” (15cm) diameter
- Understanding risk assessments for the protection of self and others and developing safe cutting plans
- Utilization of wedges
Student requirements
Full PPE:
- CSA or ANSI-approved “Class C or E” hardhat or helmet with chinstrap; vented or non-vented are acceptable. Must be within 5 years of the date of manufacturing and in good condition
- CSA or ANSI-approved safety glasses or goggles with high impact rating (CSA Z94.3 or ANSI Z87+ or Z87.1). Must be in good condition (no excessive scratches or damage)
- Hearing protection – ear muffs are preferred. Must be in good condition; No cracks or damage.
- Chainsaw pants or chaps. Must have a legible label; current within the past 5 years, and in good condition. Pants or chaps must properly fit the individual.
- CSA-Approved 6” minimum high steel-toe work boots with laces or chainsaw protective forestry boots. Must be in good condition with acceptable tread. Safety shoes or non-laced safety footwear (Blundstones or equivalent styles) are NOT ACCEPTABLE.
- Leather-palmed work gloves or rubber palm gloves with a minimum cut-resistant rating(EN 388). Gloves must be in good condition and fit comfortably. Participants must be able to have good hand dexterity for safe handling and operations.
- Recommended High-visibility (hi-vis) safety shirt, vest, jacket, or coveralls.
- Appropriate clothing for outdoor cutting operations
Reminder: Bring a lunch and a folding chair!
Comments from the 2025 Chainsaw Training Course:
“Was not really looking forward to this as I have a couple decades behind me of chainsaw work. Ended up being REALLY impressed with the instructors and felt the day had been very worthwhile!”
“Being somewhat new to using a chainsaw (and a woman) I thought I might be a bit intimidated… was immediately felt welcome and included. Great day!”
“It was amazing to learn about all the stuff I didn’t know, but should have! Feel much more confident doing bush work.”
