1) Action 1: Use of the…

1) Action 1: Use of the Digital Building Code During Exams

Proposed Change:
Allow candidates to use a Digital Building Code Compendium as an aid for reference purposes during BCIN exams.

Tarion Comments:
Tarion is supportive of investigating the proposed change to allow candidates to use a Digital Building Code.

Suggestions:
Proceed to explore this proposed change.

2) Action 2: Allow Candidates More Time per Question During Exams

Proposed Change:
Revising the number of questions from 75 to 60 within the 3-hour exam timeframe.

Tarion Comments:
Tarion supports the implementation of revising the number of questions from 75 to 60. This would also assist with the pass rate that currently sits at 17%.

Suggestion:
Proceed with this change.

3) Action 3: Mandatory Training

Proposed Change:
Mandating completion of a training program as a condition to writing BCIN exams for all new entrants.

Tarion Comments:
Tarion views this change as a factor that would hinder its internal processes and personnel from completing their BCIN examination if the requirement is to be solely sourced to certain providers. Additionally, Tarion’s own internal training program is sufficient as it stands without the requirement for a mandated training program prior to BCIN examinations.

Suggestion:
A) Refrain from sole sourcing a mandated training program to certain providers.

4) Action 4: Provide Alternative Ways to Enter the Sector

Proposed Change:
Providing BCIN qualification exemptions on equivalent credentials (qualifications and field experience).

Tarion’s Comments:
Tarion agrees with the proposed change of exemptions that include qualifications and field experience. There is a current need for Tarion-specific allowances in this regard.

Suggestion:
Proceed with exemptions on qualifications and field experience.

5) Restructure Exams to Become a Qualified Building Practitioner

Proposed Change:
Consolidating exams for a more effective qualification process.

Tarion’s Comments:
Tarion agrees in principle with the consolidation of exams for a more efficient qualification process. For Tarion’s purposes, BCIN covers a small portion of day-to-day operations in the field with the Ontario Building Code, and currently there remains better information outside of BCIN.

Suggestion:
Proceed with the consolidation of exams.

6) Knowledge Maintenance Requirements

Proposed Change:
Requiring building practitioners to attest their knowledge of any new Code amendments during annual renewals.

Tarion’s Comments:
Tarion agrees in principle with maintaining up-to-date knowledge of new Code amendments during annual renewals.

Suggestion:
Proceed with further consultations on what an annual attestation during renewals would entail.