OCAA Member Resources
OWNERS AND MANAGERS GUIDE
(Updated December 2018)
This comprehensive guide, published by the Ontario Commercial Arborist Association (OCAA), is designed to support owners and managers of tree care companies in navigating the administrative, legal, and operational aspects of their businesses. With the motto “Helping You Build A Better Tree Care Company,” the guide serves as a practical resource for improving safety, compliance, and professionalism across Ontario’s arboriculture sector.
The manual covers a wide range of topics, including:
Compliance with Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) requirements
Employment standards and contract templates
Workplace violence prevention and accessibility legislation
Insurance, privacy laws, and WSIB regulations
Health and safety policies, including WHMIS and working at heights
Training documentation and auditing processes
Equipment regulations (elevating work platforms, mobile cranes, propane handling, etc.)
Transportation, vehicle, and Ministry of Labour requirements
The document emphasizes due diligence, legal compliance, and best practices. It also provides checklists, templates, and sample policies to help tree care companies meet provincial legislation and industry standards.
It is a living document intended to be reviewed and updated periodically to reflect current laws and practices, and contributions from industry professionals are encouraged.
BORROWING/RENTING
As a benefit of your OCAA membership, you have free access to borrow "Randy" and the Load Cell—valuable tools to support training and development in the field.
Not a member? No problem. Non-members may also borrow Randy or the Load Cell for a fee of $225 per week.
Resources can be picked up or shipped at your expense. The designated pick-up location is:
Universal Field Supplies Inc. – The Arborist Store - Mississauga, Ontario
Please note: All resource loans must be arranged in advance through the OCAA Administrator. Do not arrive at The Arborist Store without a confirmed booking.
To reserve Randy or the Load Cell for your upcoming training session, click here.
Before making a request, please check the availability calendar below to ensure the resources are not already booked.
O.C.A.A. Library
Available to All Members
The OCAA Library is a comprehensive collection of professional resources designed to support your ongoing education, skills development, and expertise in the arboriculture industry. Available exclusively to OCAA members, the library features an extensive range of materials including books, manuals, workbooks, DVDs, and VHS tapes covering vital topics such as safety protocols, technical training, leadership, and professional growth.
Whether you're looking for industry standards like the ANSI A300 series, certification study guides, practical rigging manuals, or specialized training videos on aerial rescue and equipment use, the OCAA Library offers the knowledge tools you need to excel in your profession.
Key Highlights Include:
Detailed guides on tree climbing, pruning, plant health care, and safety programs
Comprehensive ANSI standards and certification preparation materials
Instructional videos covering everything from basic tree care to advanced rigging techniques
Leadership and professional development training series
Accessing the Library:
Members can browse the full library catalog (available as a PDF download) and request materials by contacting the OCAA office. This resource is designed to help you stay current with best practices, enhance your skills, and contribute to the high standards of arboriculture in Ontario.
HEALTH & SAFETY AWARENESS RESOURCES
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Helping to ensure a safe & healthy workplace under the sun.
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Prevention, detection, and treatment information for outdoor workers and pet owners.