STRATEGIC PILLAR THREE:
Support Harmonization and Promote the Consistent Application of Codes and Standards
OUTCOME:
Increasing consistency in the delivery and application of safety codes and standards to support Alberta’s economic competitiveness.
Alberta’s safety codes system provides flexibility by supporting two models of safety service delivery in the form of accredited and unaccredited jurisdictions. Jurisdictions that have the capacity and systems in place to deliver safety codes services are accredited to deliver and oversee permitting and inspection services. In unaccredited areas of the province, the Alberta Safety Codes Authority directly manages and oversees the delivery of permitting and inspection services.
The delegated model of Alberta’s safety codes system, while allowing for localized solutions, is challenged by the differing approaches to code interpretation as it relates to the application of the codes within Alberta jurisdictions, which can result in increased financial and opportunity costs associated with compliance. Standardization of code application and interpretation allows permit-holders that operate within Alberta’s safety codes system to understand the minimum regulatory requirements, creating regulatory certainty, reducing barriers to trade, and supporting Alberta’s economic competitiveness.
The Council has the opportunity to encourage the consistent interpretation and application of the code while strengthening the system as a whole. Reliable application of codes and standards supports risk-based decisions to ensure Albertans are safe by focusing enforcement and compliance actions on high-hazard safety issues.
Strategic Goal:
Standardize the Council’s regulatory processes and promote standardization of code application and interpretation in Alberta’s safety codes system.
Objectives:
The Council will promote standardization through our internal regulatory processes, education on interpretation, and support of code review and development.
1. Support Code Harmonization and Adoption
The majority of safety codes are unified and developed at the national and international level. The Council will continue to support the development, adoption and implementation of harmonized codes through the work of the sub-councils and engagement with stakeholders and system users.
2. Develop Standard Processes and Procedures within the Council
The Council will design internal processes to support effective compliance monitoring and enforcement.
3. Evolve Safety Codes Officer (SCO) Training to Build Competency in the Interpretation of Codes and Standards to Improve Consistent Application and Enable Innovation
The Council will develop training that builds skills and competencies around the interpretation of codes and standards to enable SCOs to ensure code compliance while enabling innovative solutions.
