OPA Launches Its Second Annual Chainsaw Workshop!

The Ontario Parks Association is excited to host our second Annual Chainsaw Workshop—a hands-on, practical training opportunity created especially for members who want to get certified but don’t have the ability to host a course at their own park.

Our workshop delivers a full one-day Chainsaw Safety Training Course, giving participants the chance to learn, practice, and build confidence in a supportive environment. Upon successful completion, you’ll receive a digital certification valid for three years, meeting current industry standards.

Ministry of Labour guidelines require all parks professionals who operate chainsaws as part of their job to be properly trained—and this course does exactly that. Beyond meeting requirements, the workshop equips participants with essential skills in safe operation, hazard awareness, and routine maintenance of this powerful (and potentially dangerous) tool.

Whether you’re brand new to chainsaw use or simply looking to renew your certification, this workshop is a great opportunity to sharpen your skills, connect with fellow parks professionals, and stay compliant with provincial regulations.

We can’t wait to welcome both familiar and new faces back to this popular OPA offering!

What You’ll Learn:

• Safety regulations and required PPE

• Identification and inspection of all chainsaw safety components

• Manufacturer-recommended inspection and adjustment of a chainsaw

• Starting and stopping techniques

• Safe handling and operation

• Woodlot assessment and hazard identification

• Bucking and limbing techniques

⚠️ Important: Mandatory PPE Requirements

To participate in the course, all participants must bring the following PPE:

• CSA-approved Type 1 or 2 helmet (Class C or E), in good condition

• Hearing protection (ear muffs or ear plugs)

• Gloves (leather, cloth, or composite), in good condition

• CSA-approved eye protection

• Green Patch–approved safety boots (minimum 7 eyelets)

• Full-leg chainsaw chaps or chainsaw pants with a visible UL label - Rated 3,000 feet per minute (FPM) or greater

✅ This course counts as one (1) credit toward your Parks Practitioner Designation.

Please note: Lunch will not be provided. Participants are encouraged to bring a bagged lunch and a reusable water bottle for the day.

Register Now — Limited Spots Available!

Spaces are limited to ensure a safe, high-quality learning experience. Early registration is strongly encouraged to avoid missing out.