Other Certification

Train the Trainer 

You can then provide tutorial training on core lessons.

This requirement:

• ensures consistent delivery of core pesticide assistant and applicator training
• provides information directly to trainers. This includes examination statistics, examination blueprints, what areas candidates are not mastering knowledge, exam and text review and schedules.
• provide trainers with background information to help them deliver training
• fosters an on-going working relationship between Alberta Environment and trainers to improve the training course

Certification requirements

• be a certified applicator
• have 5 years pesticide application experience
• complete a Train the Trainer in-class training course. This course is usually offered during the winter (January/February)
• if interested, contact the pesticide office 1 866 853 8646 or 780 853 8646, email pesticides@lakelandcollege.ca

Notes:

• After successfully completing the course, you will have a pesticide applicator trainer certificate valid for 5 years.
• To renew a trainer certificate, you must attend a trainer recertification class. These sessions are usually offered during the winter (January/February).

Authorized Assistant

Authorized assistants are able apply pesticides under the supervision of a certified applicator without requiring daily on-site supervision.

As well, an authorized assistants are able to apply pesticides listed in section 5(11) of the Environmental Code of Practice for Pesticides under the direct supervision by a certified applicator.

For example, an authorized assistant can apply Tordon 101® along a roadway without a certified applicator being present at all times.

To become an authorized assistant you must write a core examination and complete the authorized assistant training checklist with your supervising certified applicator.

The core examination can be taken through one of these ways:

• Complete the Pesticide Applicator core examination administered through Lakeland College. If you are successful, Lakeland College will issue an Authorized Assistant certificate
• Complete a simplified trainer administered exam after completing an in-class training course with the trainer. If you are successful, the trainer will issue an Authorized Assistant certificate. This certificate can not be used as part of the requirements to become a certified applicator.

Notes:

• The authorized assistant certificate is good for approximately 5 years before it expires. Certificates expire on your birthday, so it could be less than 5 years.
• For a new certificate, you’ll have to write another exam through Lakeland College or with a certified trainer.

Commercial Pesticide Dispenser

If your company sells registered pesticides (restricted, industrial, commercial or agricultural) you must have either:

• a valid Agrichemical Warehousing Standards Association (AWSA) certificate
• a Pesticide Vendor Registration issued by Alberta Environment

Training teaches you about sales regulations and provides you and your customers with information in the safe handling, storage and disposal of pesticides.

The certification training is a collaborative effort between Lakeland College and Alberta Environment.

About dispenser certification

• You must be 18 years of age to apply to be a Commercial Pesticide Dispenser.
• Training material has been designed specifically to prepare prospective dispensers for the certification exam.
• The home study course has lessons and a study guide. Materials are available year-round and can be ordered on the home study page.
• The course requires about 30 to 40 hours of dedicated study time
• Dispenser certificates are valid for up to 5 years, then the dispenser must apply for a renewal

Certification Exam Procedures

• To become qualified, you must write a certification exam. Exams are 2.5 hours in length, closed book.
• The exams are available online through designated proctor sites located at various centers in Alberta. Online exams allow for quicker processing of exam results.
• For exam requests, call Lakeland College at 780 853 8646 or toll-free 1 866 853 8646

Commercial Dispenser Reciprocity

• If you have a valid certificate from British Columbia, Saskatchewan and Manitoba, you can apply for reciprocity.
• Your certificate should have a valid expiry date and you’ll have to pass the dispenser reciprocity exam.
• Call the pesticides office to book an exam writing time at one of the proctor centers. They are located in Olds, Lethbridge, Edmonton, Grande Prairie and Vermilion.
• Check the home study courses page to order course materials.
• Commercial dispenser certificates expire on your birthday and are no later than the original expiry date of the other province.