September 19, 2011 – CSA Standards—a standards-based solutions organization—and the National Electrical Trade Council (NETCO)—the joint training arm of the Canadian Electrical Contractors Association (CECA) and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), 1st District Canada—officially announced the launch of a national, third-party, independent personnel certification program for construction electricians (NOC 7241) installing solar photovoltaic (PV) systems in Canada.

At a special ceremony during the IBEW International Convention & Exposition in Vancouver, B.C., the first certifications were awarded to qualifying IBEW electricians working with United Power Ltd.: Peter Curtis, Martin Kugler, Raymond Moffat and Dustin Thomas. Certifications were also issued to John Salmon of A.R. Milne Electric and Endre “Andy” Cleven of the Electrical Joint Training Committee, IBEW Local 213 and Electrical Contractors Association of British Columbia (ECABC).

“CSA applauds the first construction electricians certified in solar photovoltaic systems in this program that is designed to help ensure the safe and effective installation of solar equipment while reducing the risk of serious accident and injury,” said Stephen Brown, director, Energy, CSA Standards. “Today’s certified candidates have demonstrated measurable knowledge within the PV area by passing an assessment against objectively identified criteria. We hope this program will increase public confidence in PV installations and in turn promote energy efficiency.”

Presenting the certification awards were Rob Rashotte, director, Learning Services, for CSA Standards; Phil Flemming, IBEW international VP, 1st District Canada; and John Salmon, director, Canadian Electrical Contractors Association. These IBEW electricians recently participated in a beta test round of the certification to establish an acceptable pass mark. The personnel certification is now available in Canada to all eligible construction electricians.

CSA Standards’ PV certification program will examine an individual’s measurable knowledge and skill, rather than qualification-based programs that consider an individual’s education and general credentials.

“The personnel certification program for Construction Electricians-Solar PV Systems was sponsored by NETCO on behalf of the electrical industry,” said Eryl Roberts, executive secretary, CECA and NETCO Treasurer. “It is the first program in Canada to offer a certification based on the tasks that qualified journeyperson construction electricians carry out in applying their skills to the installation and maintenance of solar PV systems.”

“Through this new program, construction electricians will document their training in the installation of PV technology in its various applications,” said Flemming. “We are confident that training providers will see the value of CSA Standards’ personnel certification program and will align their curriculum in this area with CSA to best foster success.”

CLICK HERE for our story August 22, 2010 “CSA and NETCO developing solar PV equipment personnel certification program”.

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