Why Do Certifications Expire After Two Years?

Why Do Certifications Expire After Two Years?

There is always a buzz about the training industry regarding the frequency of training sessions most notably, “Why do Tower Climbing (or other Safety Training) Certifications expire after two years?”

After all, students who successfully complete a class at any reputable training organization have invested considerable time, money and effort to obtain a certification. It’s not uncommon to think that the expiration date on a certification is just ploy by less scrupulous organizations to pry more money out of our collective pockets.

Fortunately, that thought couldn’t be further from the truth.

As the industry leader in Fall Protection and Snowcat Operation Training we recognize there is significant value to employees, employers, tower owners, and Snowcat operators regarding regular practice and demonstration of skills related to fall protection or backcountry Snowcat operation. The main reasons we follow the industry standard for expiration are:

First, innovation and regulation changes. As our industry continues to evolve equipment manufacturers bring innovative products that solve once complicated (and sometimes dangerous) activities (think, Tower Rescue, Rigging, etc.). We work closely with these innovative manufacturing minds so we’re current on cutting edge products. As these products evolve so do OSHA regulations which set standards for appropriate conditions for use. As a result, it’s easy to see why we want to see repeat students after two years.

Second, because of the complex nature and undoubted stress of rescue, it is critical to practice as much as possible. Many organizations (including NATE) encourage annual demonstration of skills followed by bi-annual refresher-training.

As an added benefit, consistent bi-annual training means regularly issued Certification Cards with current pictures of the participant. As strange as it sounds, climber certifications are frequently counterfeit. This is also an ideal time to conduct a thorough inspection of a climber or Snowcat operator’s PPE, it is easy to become complacent with small cuts, bends, or deformations though any one of those flaws can prove fatal in emergency situations. We’ve found the most effective method for discovering these is an equipment inspection by a third party.

Finally, all certificates issued by Safety One are valid for two years. This is an industry standard, carried out by the majority of reputable training providers, and reinforced by tower owners.

It Just Expired Yesterday

Although the expiration date on a Certification Card may seem arbitrary to some, it does provide proof that a student was able to successfully demonstrate skills to a qualified evaluator.

Because the skills required to remain safe are perishable we find its too difficult to establish a gray period when it is still acceptable to perform a job with an expired Card.

How to Renew Your Certification

As the industry leader in Fall Protection Training and Snowcat Training, we update our Safety One Training courses annually to ensure that the content is fresh for new students and students needing recertification.

To renew your certification, simply contact our Training Advisors with the information below, and we will work with you to find a date and location that works around your busy schedule.

After you’ve successfully completed class and demonstrated the skills required to stay safe, you will receive a new Safety One certification card, valid for two years.

Contact Safety One for Recertification
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +1 (800) 485-7669
Contact us online: https://safetyoneinc.com/contact/

Safety One Training is a top-rated provider of fall protection training, snowcat/extreme-weather condition training, and safety & survival equipment. If you have any further questions regarding the training courses we provide, click here to contact us or give us a call at +1 (800) 485-7669.

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