TransCanada Project Safety Manager Dale O'Dwyer – photo 250 News

Prince George, B.C. – A free continuing studies Occupational Health and Safety Officer training course was announced at UNBC this afternoon.

It was made possible with a $82,500 contribution from TransCanada Corporation's Prince Rupert Gas Transmission project.

The class will teach students a variety of skills related to safety in the workplace including the development of emergency response plans and auditing an organization's overall safety system.

Course graduate Sherry Earles was present for the announcement and spoke of its benefits.

"I believe that an employer – they're looking for someone who has some training including extras like field work. It makes you look like more of a potential candidate to an employer."

TransCanada's Mark O'Dwyer adds the course helps fit in with the company's mandate.

"We need to hire folks in the north and at TransCanada safety is a real priority. We want all workers to get home happy, healthy and safe."

Company president Dean Patry says the course fits in well with the future demands of the LNG industry.

"Should even a few of the LNG processing plants and their related natural gas pipelines be approved, the demands on the existing labour force will be tremendous. Programs that promote a safe work environment are just as important as the actual construction."

The class has room for 24 students and will run September 22 through December 5 and is open to anyone over the age of 18.