OCAA EDUCATION

  • 0 to 8 tonne Crane Competency Course

    Under Ontario’s labour legislation, owners of articulated cranes under 16,000 lbs capacity must accredit their operators. This one-day certification course provided by Bob Foran of Foran Training Inc combines practical and theoretical aspects of crane safety and operation for experienced operators. Learn how to improve operator safety, increase operator productivity, extend the life of your crane and reduce crane down-time. This course has been developed to meet the intent of regulations contained in the Occupational Health and Safety Act (Ontario)

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  • Plant Health Care Seminar

    This annual session is an essential event for company owners, plant health care specialists, and arborists who are committed to staying ahead of the curve in pest management and control strategies. Packed with timely updates, real-world insights, and the latest research, this session delivers critical information on emerging pests, treatment innovations, and effective scouting techniques.

    Attendees are encouraged to come ready to share experiences, explore treatment options, review scouting reports, and actively participate in open-floor discussions. Whether you're looking to refine your current approach or expand your knowledge base, this session offers a valuable opportunity to collaborate, learn, and lead in the ever-evolving field of plant health care.

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  • Electrical Safety Awareness - Ground Worker

    “This one-day awareness course provides participants with a basic understanding of electrical hazards related to utility line clearing work, including working in areas where utility lines may be present, and what is required to assess and control these hazards.”

    This is an IHSA course that will provide a certificate to the attendee upon completion.

    Course content:
    Introduction to electrical safety
    Basic electrical theory
    Energy flow and barriers
    Electricity and the body
    Induction
    Step and touch potential
    Safe limits of approach
    Personal protective equipment
    Job planning
    Ground support for line clearing

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RESOURCES

The Ontario Commercial Arborists Association is proud to support the arboriculture industry with practical tools that help enhance training and professional development.

Looking to elevate your next crew training session? OCAA offers access to two valuable field tools: "Randy" the training dummy and a Load Cell for measuring forces during rigging or lifting demonstrations.

These resources are available for OCAA members at no charge.
Non-members are also welcome to borrow them for a rental fee of $225 per week.

Pick-up and return can be arranged through our designated partner:

Universal Field Supplies Inc. – The Arborist Store
Mississauga, Ontario

Shipping can also be arranged at your expense.

All resource loans must be booked in advance through the OCAA Administrator. Please do not visit the pick-up location without a confirmed reservation.

To check availability or request a booking, click below:

TRAINING

Infrastructure, Health & Safety Association (IHSA)

💥 OCAA Member Benefit: Special IHSA Member Rates!
Thanks to our partnership with the Infrastructure Health & Safety Association, OCAA members can access training at IHSA’s preferred member pricing.

🔗 Learn more at IHSA

Arborist Safe Work Practices (ASWP)

The Arborist Safe Work Practices manual is a foundational safety resource developed for arborists working in Ontario. It outlines standardized procedures and best practices to help reduce risk, promote consistency, and ensure the safety of both workers and the public in all areas of arboriculture.

Used by professionals, training organizations, and safety committees across the province, the ASWP manual is continuously updated to reflect the evolving needs of the industry. It serves as a critical tool for employers, supervisors, and ground crews alike.

📘 View the manual and resources here:
👉 www.arboristsafeworkpractices.com

Ground Worker Training Program

The Ground Worker Training Program is a hands-on, skills-based initiative developed to prepare individuals for safe and successful careers in the arboriculture industry. Through a partnership between OCAA, the International Society of Arboriculture Ontario (ISAO), and The Career Foundation, this program offers practical training in job site safety, equipment use, and essential ground crew duties.

This program is ideal for those seeking entry into the tree care profession and helps bridge the gap between classroom knowledge and on-the-job readiness—supporting both the workforce and commercial employers.

📺 Visit the Ground Worker Training Program YouTube Channel
🌐 Learn more at careerfoundation.com/programs/trees

TRAINING PROVIDERS

Below is a list of trusted organizations and companies offering specialized training and resources to support professional development, safety, and leadership in the arboriculture and landscape industries.

ONTARIO INSTITUTIONS OFFERING ARBORICULTURE & ARBORISTS TRAINING PROGRAMS

Explore a curated list of recognized Ontario-based colleges, universities, and training organizations that offer comprehensive arboriculture and arborist-related programs. Whether you're beginning a career in tree care or advancing your professional skills, these institutions provide hands-on training, theoretical knowledge, and industry-recognized certifications to support your development in the field of arboriculture. Each listing includes direct links, program details, and contact information to help you find the right educational path.

Algonquin College – Pembroke Campus

  • Program: Urban Forestry – Arboriculture (1-year Ontario College Certificate)

  • Overview: Hands-on education in arboriculture science, including tree climbing, pruning, removal, planting, and disease management.

  • Contact:

Humber College – North Campus (Toronto)

  • Programs:

    • Urban Arboriculture – Tree Care (2-semester certificate)

    • Arborist Apprenticeship (24-week program)

  • Overview: Comprehensive training in urban tree care, including climbing, pruning, rigging, aerial rescue, and chainsaw maintenance.

  • Contact:

Sault College – Sault Ste. Marie

  • Program: Utility Arborist Apprenticeship

  • Overview: Focuses on maintenance and removal of trees in various settings with a strong emphasis on safety.

  • Contact:

Fleming College – Frost Campus (Lindsay)

  • Program: Arboriculture (Co-op)

  • Overview: Combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills in urban tree care, including safe tree climbing techniques and aerial rescue.

  • Contact:

University of Guelph – School of Continuing Studies

  • Course: Arboriculture (Course Code: 3101025)

  • Overview: Examines the management of healthy trees within various ecological environments, deepening knowledge of tree biology and care.

  • Contact:

Skilled Trades Ontario

  • Program: Arborist Apprenticeship

  • Overview: Includes two levels of theoretical training covering safe work practices, tools and equipment, arboricultural sciences, and more.

  • Contact:

International Society of Arboriculture – Ontario Chapter

  • Overview: Provides information on becoming an arborist, including educational programs and certification processes.

  • Website: ISA Ontario

  • Contact: