Softwood Grading Courses

The CLA offers two types of softwood grading courses:

• RED & WHITE PINE - Appearance Grading for Exposed Applications (Grading rules paragraphs 117,118,151-163);
  
  
• STRUCTURAL (SPF) - For construction Applications (Grading rules paragraphs 121-124).

Both courses are 5-day workshops tailored to provide industry personnel who have a basic working knowledge of lumber a true understanding of softwood lumber grading. The courses are also an excellent introduction to those with no prior experience in the lumber sector. The course includes a thorough study and explanation of the National Lumber Grades Authority (NLGA) Standards Grading Rules for Canadian Lumber with a focus on Grading Theory (i.e., General provisions, Glossary of items, Intended use of a given grade, Seasoning, Moisture relationships, and defect evaluation).

At the conclusion of the courses, students are required to pass a written examination (Theory) as well as a practical test (visual inspection/grading of wood samples). Successful candidates qualify to receive a grading permit.

The courses are offered in English only. However, our inspectors are bilingual.

Dates and Locations

Please visit our web page in the new year for information regarding structural and appearance courses that will be offered in spring 2008.