Training Provider Program Recognition for Class B Apprenticeship Training Programs
Information Bulletin
Training Provider Program Recognition for Class B Apprenticeship Training Programs
February 26, 2019
Reference Number:
IB-GA 2019-01
Technical Safety BC has developed a new class B gas fitter certificate of qualification exam syllabus to reflect technological advancements in equipment, and the program revisions resulting from the Industry Training Authority’s (ITA) review of the class B gas fitter program.
Training providers wanting to deliver a program for ITA’s new two-level class B gas fitter apprenticeship must have it recognized by a provincial safety manager (as per Directive D-GA-2018-02) by submitting all required documents for review by the provincial safety manager at least six weeks prior to the proposed training date.
As per ITA’s Transition Plan, training providers can begin to offer level one of the new recognized training program on April 1, 2019, and level two on April 1, 2020.
To meet the requirements of Gas Safety Regulation (GSR) division 2 s.7(1)(b), a gas class B apprenticeship program should:
- include all topics identified in the most current syllabus;
- include at least 261 hours of theory (in-class and/or online) and 39 hours of lab/shop practical training for level one; and
- include at least 256 hours of theory (in-class and/or online) and 44 hours of lab/shop practical training for level two.
The requirements to obtain a class B gas fitter certificate depend on an individual’s current status:
| Current Certification Status | Education Requirement |
|---|---|
| Plumbing and steam fitting apprentices starting technical training on or after April 1, 2019 | Receive credit for gas fitting level one technical and work-based training once all four levels are completed* |
| Class B gas apprentices that have completed level one technical training prior to April 1, 2019 | Complete the current level two training program by March 31, 2021. |
| Plumbers and steamfitters currently partway through apprenticeship program | Complete apprenticeship and challenge class B certification by March 31, 2025. |
| Individuals who hold a red seal piping trade certificate | Complete a class B gas fitter trade qualification holder course and challenge class B certification by March 31, 2022. |
* provided that the Plumbing and Steam fitting Training Programs delivered by the training provider have been recognized by the Technical Safety BC provincial safety manager.
Note: Apprenticeship training programs are required to be approved by the ITA.
For additional information on terms and legislation, please refer to the applicable Acts and Regulations.
Provincial Safety Manager, Technical Safety BC