Refrigeration Operator

In order to apply for your Refrigeration Operator certificate, you must have one of the following:

• Refrigeration mechanic credential issued under the Industry Training Authority Act (qualifying time not required)
• Proof of successful completion of an approved refrigeration operator course
• Proof of having an equivalent technical educational background that has been approved by a provincial safety manager

To apply for your certification exams, you must meet the general eligibility requirements for this class.

For more information on our exams visit the Exam Information page.

To apply, log in to your Online Services account and select "Apply for a new certificate" under the certification tab. Don't have an account? Sign up now.

If you wish to apply by mail, please fill out the Contact Us form to request a paper form.

How to Apply For Examination

Once you have submitted your application and paid the applicable fee, we will evaluate your qualifications. If you’re successful, we will contact you and you will be able to apply for this certification's exam.

Once you have been approved to apply for the exam, log in to your Online Services account to find your available exam and choose your preferred exam dates, times, and locations. You will not be able to book your exam until we notify you that you are eligible.

Effective March 1, 2023, all refrigeration operator and ice facility operator certificate of qualification examinations will comprise of 100 multiple choice questions. This exam is three hours long, and you must achieve a minimum grade of 65% to pass. View the syllabus.

You will have three chances to pass; after each attempt, applicants will receive a Notification Letter from Technical Safety BC that details the marks achieved and highlights areas that need improvement. An exam re-write fee applies to each additional attempt.

If you fail an exam, you will will need to wait 30 days after the previous examination to rebook. If you fail your third or any subsequent attempt, you must request permission to take a fourth or further attempts, with additional time required between each attempt.

For more information on our exams visit the Exam Information page.

To apply for your evaluation, you must pass all of your certification exams, and be employed for a minimum of sixth months assisting the operation plant that uses one of the following: 

• Group A3, B2L, B2 or B3 refrigerants and has a capacity of more than 25 kW of prime mover nameplate rating
• Group A1, A2L, A2 or B1 refrigerants and has a capacity of more than 125 kW of prime mover nameplate rating

Refer to Safety Regulation for more information.

To apply, please complete the plant operating experience form 1026. Once you've filled it in, log in to your Online Services account, start your certificate application and follow the steps to upload the completed form and submit your application. Your proof of experience form will be reviewed by a Provincial Safety Manager. Don't have an account? Sign up now.

If you wish to submit your form by mail, please address it to:
Suite 600 - 2889 East 12th Avenue, Vancouver, BC V5M 4T5.