FULL-TIME | WINNIPEG LOCATIONS OCCHF-CT Occupational Health & Safety

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Overview

  • Eight-month certificate
  • Entry date: September
  • Notre Dame campus, Winnipeg
  • Six-week (240-hour) work experience
  • Part-time study available – see the Occupational Health & Safety part-time page

Description

This program will provide you with a fundamental understanding of occupational health and safety. The program addresses the role and responsibilities of an occupational health and safety practitioner including:

  • Risk management
  • Hazard recognition, control, and prevention
  • Safety management systems in the workplace

The program incorporates a multi-disciplinary approach in contributing to the development of a health and safety culture.

Red River College is continually evaluating programs to ensure that the program best meets student needs and industry standards. See Recent Changes section regarding revisions to the full-time program.

Admission Requirements

Your Academic History
If your academic history includes any of the following, please visit My Education for important information: post-secondary studies at an institution other than Red River College Polytechnic; Modified (M), English as an Additional Language (E), or GED high school courses; or home schooling; international secondary (high school) studies.
The college requires transcripts verifying your complete academic history including any public or private high school, college, university, or technical institute you have attended.

DOCUMENT SUBMISSION

Upload Through Your Future Student Account

  • Scan your document(s) and save the file. Ensure you keep your original documents as the College may request to see them at any time.
  • Go to apply.rrc.ca and log in.
  • Click on your application, then Supplemental Items & Documents.

If you do not have a Future Student Account or require assistance, please contact our Student Service Centre at 204-632-2327.

Internationally Educated Applicants - visit www.rrc.ca/credentials for credential assessment information.

Submission of required documentation indicating proof of completion of admission requirements is due within 15 days of applying unless otherwise noted in the program's admission requirements.

However, if you apply within six weeks of the start date of the program, this item is due within 5 days of applying.

It is strongly recommended that you are proficient in basic computer skills to participate in this program. You will be required to use the following:

  • the Internet to locate reference material
  • word processing, spreadsheet, and presentation software to complete assignments
  • email to communicate with instructors and other students

If you do not have these skills, it is recommended that you complete Computers - Intro (COMP-1081) prior to beginning the program.

Regular Admission Requirements

  1. Grade 12
    • Submit proof of graduation from or enrolment in Grade 12, including one credit in each of the following:
      • Grade 12 English (40S)
      • Grade 12 Applied Math (40S)
      • Grade 12 Science (Biology, Chemistry or Physics 40S)
    • If you provide proof of enrolment, your official final grades indicating successful completion must be submitted by July 15 for fall enrolment or by the deadline specified in your admission letter.
    • If you completed your education outside of Canada or the United States, do not submit your international academic credentials until requested to do so. See English Language Requirements (ELRs) for more information.
      and

  2. English Language Requirements (ELRs)
    • Have you successfully completed the equivalent of three years of full-time secondary (high school) education in Canada, the United States, or an ELR exempt country where English was the language of instruction? To view a list of ELR exempt countries click here.
    • If you apply within six weeks of the start date of the program, this item is due within 5 days of applying.
    • Approved English language assessments and required levels for this program are:
      • AEPUCE (AEPL-1001)
        Listening 8, Speaking 8, Reading 8, Writing 8
        or
      • International English Language Testing System (IELTS - Academic):
        Listening 6.5, Speaking 7.0, Reading 7.0, Writing 6.5
        or
      • Canadian Test of English for Scholars and Trainees (CanTEST):
        Listening 4.5,  Speaking 4.5,  Reading 4.5,  Writing 4.0
      • If completing an assessment, we strongly advise you complete it before submitting your application to ensure you meet language requirements and can submit your results within 30 days of applying.
      • Assessment results must be dated within two years of your application date.
      • After confirming you’ve met English language requirements through your assessment results, the College will send you an e-mail requesting submission of your transcripts. 
        and

Mature Student Admission Requirements
If you are 19 years of age or older and have been out of high school for a minimum of one year at time of application, and you do not meet the regular admission requirements, you may apply under the Mature Student admission requirements.

  1. Academic Requirement
    • High school graduation is not required, but you must have successfully completed or be enrolled in:
      • one credit in each of the following courses:
        • Grade 12 English (40S)
        • Grade 12 Applied Math (40S)
    • If you provide proof of enrolment, your official final grades indicating successful completion must be submitted by July 15 for fall enrolment or by the deadline specified in your admission letter.
    • If you completed your education outside of Canada or the United States, do not submit your international academic credentials until requested to do so. See English Language Requirements (ELRs) for more information.
      and

  2. Meet Regular Admission Requirement 2

English Language Assessments

English Language AssessmentMinimum Required Levels
L - Listening, S - Speaking, R - Reading, W - WritingLSRW
AEPUCE (Academic English Program of University and College Entrance )
Requirement: Submission of a parchment (certificate) indicating successful completion of the AEPUCE program, including language levels achieved if available.
8888
CAEL and CAEL Online (Canadian Academic English Language)
60707060
CLB (LINC) (Canadian Language Benchmark - Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada)
Canadian Citizens: LINC programs are not available.
8888
Duolingo (Duolingo English Test)

* MINIMUM OVERAL SCORE OF 115 REQUIRED.

There are no minimum required levels for L,S,R,W.

Only Duolingo English Test scores that have been verified through the Duolingo English Test Portal will be accepted.

0*0*0*0*
IELTS - Academic (International English Language Testing System)
Please Note: 3 year expiry date for Nursing Program Applicants
6.57.07.06.5
PTE - Academic Online Assessment (Pearson Test of English)
58656558
Password Skills (An in person English Language Assessment hosted by RRC Polytech)
This in-person, computer-based test is composed of four test modules: reading, writing, listening and speaking. The test takes 3 hours and 5 minutes to complete and is conducted in two parts. The first part assesses reading, listening, and writing, and the second part assesses speaking in a separate room. Password Skills is hosted by the RRC Polytech Testing and Assessment Centre: E440, Manitou a bi Bii Daziigae building, on the fourth floor. If you wish to do Password Skills remotely (not in-person), Password Skills Plus can be taken online. RRC Polytech does not offer Password Skills Plus, but we do accept the results for entry into program.
6.57.07.06.5
Password Skills Plus (Password Skills Plus is an online assessment that can be taken instead of Password Skills. )
6.57.07.06.5
TOEFL-iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language - internet Based Test)
To meet the needs of students who are unable to take the TOEFL iBT® test at a test center due to public health concerns, ETS is temporarily offering the TOEFL iBT Special Home Edition test in selected areas.
20232424

Who Should Enrol?

Take this program if you are responsible for occupational health and safety in your workplace, if you wish to advance your knowledge in a specific area of OH&S, or if you are pursuing a career in the field.

Locations, Dates and Fees

Costs (estimates only; subject to change)

Program/Student Fees
Year 1
$9,709.001
Books and Supplies
Year 1
$1,000.00
Program/Student Fees (International)
Year 1
$14,021.00
1Includes Health and Dental Fees

Students may apply for financial assistance through the Manitoba Student Aid program. For general information on applying please call 204-945-6321 or 1-800-204-1685, or visit their website at www.manitobastudentaid.ca, which also includes an online application. For detailed information, please visit one of the RRC Polytech Student Service Centres or call 204-632-2327. Applicants requiring financial assistance should complete their student loan applications well in advance of the class start date.

Program Outline

Program Content
  • Ergonomics - Intro
  • Hazard Recognition, Evaluation and Control
  • OHS-Documentation and Reporting  
  • OHS-Environmental Issues
  • OHS-Health
  • OHS-Hygiene
  • OHS-Information Management
  • OHS-Ethical and Legal Issues
  • OHS-Managing OHS
  • OHS-Program Development
  • OHS-Risk Management
  • OHS-Safety
  • OHS-Safety Audit and Analysis
  • OHS-Training Intro
  • OHS-Workplace Experience
  • Project Management Fundamentals 

Note: C+ (65 percent) is required in all courses.

Courses and Descriptions

(Click the course name to view the description of the course)
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
In addition to Transfer of Credit from a recognized post secondary institution, other RPL processes are available for RPL courses. Click here for more information. For courses with no RPL, please check www.rrc.ca/rpl for additional contact information.
ENVI-1015OHS - Environmental IssuesRPL
More Information

Explore the basic concepts of environmental management as it relates to the workplace environment including air, water and soil pollution, hazardous waste management and environmental assessment. Review the impact of federal, provincial and municipal environmental legislation on the workplace.

HUMR-1027OHS - Training - Intro
More Information

Write learning outcomes/goals that meet the needs of the organization and individuals. Apply adult teaching and learning principles and practices to develop and deliver OH&S training. Practice using training techniques and methods and apply assessment methods. Learn how to evaluate external training to determine applicability to your organization.

MGMT-1191Project Management: Fundamentals
More Information

Overview the basics of project management including theory and core methodology needed to manage projects or participate on project teams. Develop an introductory understanding of the generally accepted knowledge areas and practices of project management, including terminology. Learn how to apply basic processes, tools, and techniques. Develop a basic project plan in a team environment through focus on conceptual underpinnings of project management techniques to plan, organize, control, document, and close projects successfully and with minimum risk.

SAFE-1015OHS - Safety Audit & Analysis
More Information

This practical application course provides you with experience in the use of a systematic approach to evaluate and explain safety performance in terms of strengths and weaknesses. You will learn to evaluate and explain statistical data, safety objectives, scorecards, critical incidents, and critical behaviors within an organization. Using a case study approach, you will perform an audit to evaluate and analyze the OHS management system in an organization and recommend a continuous improvement process.

SAFE-1020OHS - Information Management
More Information

Locate and use basic research, statistical concepts and terminology in the context of relevant OH&S applications. Learn how to review, compile, interpret, and critically evaluate literature and data to write reports and support enhancements to workplace health and safety.

SAFE-1021OHS - Risk Management
More Information

Risk management is about a proactive approach to managing safety, with prevention as the focus. You will address the key elements of risk management and identify, assess, and evaluate risks and controls to effectively manage OH&S responsibilities. Explore the theories of incident causation and prevention and gain the knowledge and skills necessary to apply the principles of OHS risk management process and the preparation of safe work communication strategies.

SAFE-1022OHS - SafetyRPL
More Information

This course focuses on physical hazards and controls in the workplace utilizing a risk management framework. Use a variety of inspection skills and outline the essential parts of an incident investigation process. Learn how to evaluate workplace incidents, utilize studies and data, and apply appropriate legislation and regulations.

SAFE-1026OHS - Ethical & Legal Issues
More Information

Acquire knowledge of the legal and ethical responsibilities of all parties and those of the OH&S practitioner, including professional and ethical codes of conduct, commitment to excellence, personal growth and life-long learning. Explore the general concepts of legislation relevant to the safety field, including the history of the Canadian legal system which sets the tone for introducing the concepts of workers' compensation, safety regulation, due diligence, consultation, and enforcement. Learn how to approach and resolve ethical dilemmas.

SAFE-1031Hazard Recognition, Evaluation & Control
More Information

Recognition and evaluation of hazards is foundational to the creation of a safe work environment. This course will develop your ability to identify and determine physical, biological, chemical, cognitive and psychosocial hazards and controls for the workplace environment. This course will provide you both the theoretical and practical experience necessary to evaluate and implement hazard controls in the workplace environment, such as administrative, engineering, and personal protective equipment

SAFE-1032OHS Documentation & Reporting
More Information

The ability to inform management and other stakeholders of the need for change in OHS practices requires significant comprehension of the variables affecting that information. Learn how to prepare reports that utilize current OHS research, issues, and workplace performance data from OHS documentation. Plan and manage meetings following generally accepted formats. Present OHS report findings to the management of an organization for decision making.

SAFE-1045OHS - Hygiene
More Information

Obtain the skills to recognize, identify, monitor, evaluate and recommend control of health and safety risks associated with chemical, physical, and biological agents. You will learn the benefits of implementing an occupational hygiene program. Explore a range of hygiene topics including routes of entry, permissible levels, exposure limits, radiation, temperature and pressure extremes, asbestos contamination, ventilation design and methods of measurement and control.

SAFE-1054Ergonomics - Intro
More Information

Ergonomics is the study of workers' interaction with their workplace. Explore introductory principles and concepts of occupational ergonomics, emphasizing strategies and techniques for improving worker safety, health, efficiency, and comfort. Acquire knowledge related to musculoskeletal injuries, assessment tools and, ergonomic programs. Discuss literature and media reports on recent trends in the ergonomics field and learn how to develop elements of a sound workplace ergonomics program.

SAFE-1057OHS - Managing OHS
More Information

Explore the relationship of Occupational Health and Safety to organizational and management systems. Address leadership commitment, open communication, interpersonal skills, and legal accountability as core concepts that form the basis for achieving organizational goals and effective safety programs. Obligations and liabilities of the OH&S practitioner/safety generalist within the structure and function of management systems and the responsibilities of all parties are addressed.

SAFE-1058OHS - Workplace ExperienceRPL
More Information

This supervised workplace experience or Capstone Project allows you the opportunity to apply your skills and abilities as an OH&S professional. Through the mentorship provided to you, you will work both individually and as a member of the workplace team to advocate change, design and deliver training, and apply risk management principles through the application of legislative requirements, industry standards and best practices.

SAFE-1091OHS - HealthRPL
More Information

Acquire background knowledge about occupational health in the workplace. Promote health and wellness initiatives in the workplace.  Learn about occupational disease and psychosocial risks. Apply appropriate legislation and standards to workplace practices and learn how to manage a return to work process.

SAFE-1443OHS - Program DevelopmentRPL
More Information

Develop the essential knowledge and skills required to develop, coordinate, implement, maintain, and evaluate an OH&S program within an organizational construct. Develop the policies and procedures required for a written OH&S program including workplace inspections, accident investigations, record keeping, first aid, ergonomics, emergency preparedness, job hazard analysis, training, work procedures and regular program review.

CO-OP/Practicum Information

Based on the nature of the work experience placement, you may be required to submit Adult Criminal Record/Vulnerable Sector, Provincial Child Abuse Registry and Adult Abuse Registry check documents. You must submit original documents dated not more than six months prior to you attending the work place experience. For further information, visit rrc.ca/recordcheckft
 
You may be placed in a variety of organizations or industries for work experience as an Occupational Health and Safety practitioner. All practicums are arranged by the College and will take place in Winnipeg.

Computer/Laptop Requirements

Online learning is a critical component of course delivery in all Red River College programs. To ensure each student has the tools they need to achieve their academic goals, all Red River College students require, at minimum:

1.  Off-campus access to a current computer with a webcam

2.  A high speed internet connection

• Recommended minimum speed: 10 mbps for download, 3 mbps for upload
• Slower internet connection speeds may result in audio and video issues. Please keep in mind that if others in your home are using the same internet connection at the same time as you are, you may also experience audio and video issues.
• Please refer to https://www.rrc.ca/future-students/computer-requirements/ for further information on Computer Requirements for Students.

Please note that any anticipated costs are not included in Books and Supplies estimates.

Objectives/Learning Outcomes

Through successful completion of this program, you will acquire the knowledge, skills, and judgement to function as an entry-level practitioner in occupational health and safety. You will be able to contribute to the development and maintenance of a healthy and safe work environment.
 
Upon completion of the Occupational Health and Safety Program, you should be able to: 
  • Interpret and apply legislative requirements, industry standards, and best practices in a variety of workplaces.
  • Apply risk management principles to anticipate, identify, evaluate and control physical, chemical, biological and psychosocial hazards.
  • Collect, manage, and interpret information and data to identify trends and issues in the workplace.
  • Design, support, and evaluate health and safety programs and implement procedures using project management principles and processes appropriate to the task.
  • Affect/manage change by advancing OH&S principles within management systems, cultures, practices, and priorities.
  • Apply basic adult learning and assessment principles in the design, development and delivery of training and information for differing levels within the workplace. 
  • Set and achieve work priorities and goals individually and as a team member.
  • Use a range of effective communication skills and methods to clearly and briefly convey regulatory and technical information and data to designated audiences.
  • Practice due diligence and employ ethical standards in all aspects of professional conduct.
  • Use current technologies and applications appropriate to the task.

Recent Changes

Program Changes:

During 2013-2014, the College conducted a review of the Occupational Health and Safety Certificate Program as part of the quality curriculum process. The review was facilitated by the Program and Curriculum Department in consultation with the Program Advisory Committee, industry and program instructors.

Effective September 1, 2014, the following revisions have been made to the program:

1. SAFE-1032 OHS Documentation & Reporting - This course has replaced the COMM-1022 OHS-Business Communication 1 course. Learn how to prepare reports that utilize current OHS research, issues and workplace performance data from OHS documentation.

If, prior to December 30, 2013, you have successfully completed COMM-1022 OHS-Business Communication 1, you will maintain credit for a communications course in the program. You will not be required to take the SAFE-1032 OHS Documentation & Reporting course.

Currently, there is no other communications course equivalent to the SAFE-1032 OHS Documentation & Reporting.


2. SAFE-1031 Hazard Recognition and Control - This course will develop your ability to identify and determine physical, biological, chemical, cognitive and psychosocial hazards and controls for the workplace environment. This course will provide both the theoretical and practical experience necessary to evaluate and implement hazard controls in the workplace environment, such as administrative, engineering, and personal protective equipment.

You must successfully complete this course prior to completing the SAFE-1015 Safety Audit and Analysis and attending the workplace experience.


3. SAFE-1015 Safety Audit and Analysis - This practical application course provides you with experience in the use of a systematic approach to evaluate and explain safety performance in terms of strengths and weaknesses. This course provides you with the necessary skills and application for conducting safety audits and analysis.
 
For the full-time program, this course will also give students the necessary knowledge, skills and judgments required for completion of the six week workplace experience.


4. SAFE-1063 OHS Capstone Project is an alternative to the workplace experience for part-time Continuing Education students only. To participate in the project you must be employed in the field.

Recognition of Prior Learning

Call 204-632-3094 for PLAR information regarding the Occupational Health and Safety Certificate Program.

Other Information

If you wish to obtain a professional designation, such as with the Board of Canadian Registered Safety Professionals, you must meet their stated eligibility requirements.

Partnerships

The development of the Occupational Health and Safety Certificate program was made possible through joint funding with the Workers Compensation Board's Community Initiatives and Research Program.

Graduation Requirements

You must complete your program within four years from the start of the first course in the program, unless otherwise stated in the program outline.

To graduate you must successfully complete all OHS theory courses, with a minimum of C+ and pass the workplace experience. The workplace experience is evaluated on a pass/fail basis.

You will not be granted more than 75% of your credit requirements for graduation through transfer of credit.
 
When you have successfully completed all the required courses in this program, be sure to apply for your certificate. For complete details on applying to graduate and convocation, see rrc.ca/convocation.

Questions about graduation? Please call 204-694-1789 or 1-866-242-7073 for assistance.

Graduation with Honours
If you obtain a grade point average (GPA) of 3.8 or better for the program, you will graduate with honours. If you fail any course in the program, you will not be eligible for this honours designation.

Employment Potential

Graduates will be prepared for career opportunities as entry-level practitioners in Occupational Health and Safety in a variety of industries and organizations.
Academic Advising Service
Our academic advising service can provide information about our full-time programs, explain program admission requirements, and help you select the right program to meet your career and academic goals. We can also connect you with helpful people, resources, and supports.
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Red River College Polytechnic endeavours to provide the most current version of all program and course information on this website. Please be advised that classes may be scheduled between 8:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. The College reserves the right to modify or cancel any course, program, process, or procedure without notice or prejudice. Fees may change without notice.