What is a Certificate of Authorization (COA) and Do You Need One?

Introduction

If you're a contractor in British Columbia regulated by Technical Safety BC (TSBC), understanding the requirements for your business can be complex. One key aspect is whether you need a Certificate of Authorization (COA). This guide will explain what a COA is, when it's required, and how to ensure compliance.

What is a Certificate of Authorization?

A Certificate of Authorization (COA) is an official document issued by TSBC that authorizes a contractor to perform specific types of work within regulated categories. The COA confirms that the contractor meets all necessary requirements for safety and quality control as outlined by TSBC regulations.

Key Points:

Issued by TSBC: Only TSBC can issue a COA.
Regulated Work Categories: Includes classes such as refrigeration (Class REF), boiler work (Class B), and pressure welding (Class PW).
Quality Control Program (QCP) Manual Requirement: As of January 1, 2026, all contractors in Class REF and Class B must submit a TSBC-approved QCP manual to obtain or renew their COA.

Do You Need a Certificate of Authorization?

To determine if you need a COA, consider the following:

Types of Work Performed

Class REF (Refrigeration): If your business involves refrigeration work, such as installing, repairing, or maintaining refrigeration systems.
Class B (Boiler): If your company performs boiler installation, repair, or maintenance.
Other Regulated Classes: TSBC regulates several other classes of work. Check the specific requirements for each class.

Compliance Requirements

QCP Manual Submission: As of January 1, 2026, all contractors in Class REF and Class B must submit a QCP manual to obtain or renew their COA.
Operations Accuracy Attestation: The contractor is responsible for the truthfulness of their operations as stated in the QCP manual.

How to Obtain a Certificate of Authorization

To get your COA, you need to follow these steps:

Step 1: Complete the Intake Form

Submit a detailed intake form that captures all necessary information about your business and operations. This form takes approximately 20 minutes to complete.

Step 2: Draft Your QCP Manual

Once the intake form is submitted, Navdex Solutions Inc., operating as GetQCPManual.ca, will draft your QCP manual based on TSBC's BRC-7031-03 guideline. This process takes 72 hours from submission of the intake form.

Step 3: Review and Sign

Review the drafted QCP manual to ensure it accurately reflects your operations. You must sign an Operations Accuracy Attestation, confirming that all information is true and accurate.

Step 4: Submit to TSBC

Submit the completed QCP manual to TSBC for approval. If any changes are requested by TSBC, we will revise the document free of charge until it meets their standards.

Pricing and Turnaround

Class REF: $4,500 + GST.
Class B: $3,850 + GST.
Turnaround Time: 72 hours from intake form submission to draft completion.

Payment Terms

A 50% deposit is required to start the process, with the balance due upon delivery of the final QCP manual.

FAQ

What happens if my QCP manual is rejected by TSBC?

If TSBC requests changes to your QCP manual, we will revise it free of charge until it meets their standards. This ensures that you have a document that is accepted and ready for submission.

Can I use the same QCP manual for multiple COAs?

Yes, if you hold multiple COAs within the same class (e.g., Class REF), you can typically use the same QCP manual. However, ensure all operations covered by your COAs are accurately reflected in the manual.

How often do I need to renew my COA?

COAs must be renewed annually. As part of this process, you will need to submit an updated QCP manual if there have been changes to your operations or processes.

What is included in the QCP Manual?

The QCP manual includes 17 sections built to TSBC guideline BRC-7031-03. It covers all necessary aspects of quality control and safety, including company-specific details, branded forms/exhibits, and revision control.

Conclusion

Understanding whether you need a Certificate of Authorization (COA) is crucial for compliance with TSBC regulations. For Class REF and Class B contractors, obtaining a COA requires submitting a QCP manual that meets TSBC standards. GetQCPManual.ca can help streamline this process by providing a fast turnaround and ensuring your document is accepted by TSBC or revised free of charge.

If you have any further questions or need assistance with your QCP manual, contact us today at [contact information]. We are here to support you in meeting all regulatory requirements for your business.