COR Certification in Alberta: What You Need to Know

What Is COR Certification?

COR (Certificate of Recognition) is an occupational health and safety accreditation issued to employers who develop and implement a health and safety program that meets provincial standards. In Alberta, the COR program is coordinated by the Alberta Construction Safety Association (ACSA) and recognized by Alberta Labour.

The goal of COR certification is simple: reduce workplace injuries and incidents through a structured, proactive safety system.

Why Does COR Matter for Your Business?

Whether you’re bidding on contracts or improving internal processes, COR certification gives your organization credibility. Here’s why it’s important:

• It’s required by many general contractors and public-sector buyers.
• It can make you eligible for WCB premium rebates.
• It proves your safety program meets a recognized national standard.
• It shows your commitment to a safe and compliant work environment.

In short, COR is more than a certificate, it’s a sign you take safety seriously.

How to Get COR Certified in Alberta

To become COR certified in Alberta, your company must follow a clear process:

1. Develop and implement a health and safety management system that meets provincial standards.
2. Have one or more employees complete mandatory training, such as the ACSA’s Principles of Health & Safety Management.
3. Undergo a third-party safety audit conducted by a certified auditor.
4. Score a minimum of 80% overall, with at least 50% in each audit element.
5. Submit your audit results to your Certifying Partner (e.g., ACSA) for review and approval.

Once approved, your COR is valid for three years, with internal audits required in years two and three to maintain status.

How Irwin’s Safety Supports COR Certification

At Irwin’s, we help clients across Alberta prepare for, pass, and maintain their COR certification. Our support includes:

• Pre-audit program reviews to identify gaps in your current system
• Hands-on help updating or building compliant policies and procedures
• Providing on-site safety personnel to support implementation
• Internal mock audits and consulting before your official audit
• Corrective action planning for organizations that didn’t pass the first time

We’ve supported companies of all sizes, from construction to oil & gas, through every step of the COR process.

Need Help Getting COR Certified?

Whether you're starting from scratch or need to renew an expired certificate, we’ll help you move from audit to action, with confidence.

Contact Irwin’s Safety today to schedule a COR consultation or request a gap assessment.