This course will introduce you to the fundamentals of the Building Service Worker field, including health and safety practices, cleaning procedures, tools and equipment, and anti-contagion practices. You will also learn about enhanced cleaning techniques and best practices to help prevent or reduce the impact of contagions, such as COVID-19. Concepts will be taught through a combination of direct instruction, video demonstrations, self-directed reading, classroom discussion, and activities/assignments. The Building Service Worker Foundations course is suitable for those who want to work in the cleaning and maintaining of commercial, institutional, or residential buildings. This course was developed with employer insights from the public and private sector, and will prepare the student for entry-level work as a custodian. This course is currently being delivered online, so please be prepared to attend your classes with the following: • A computer with a microphone and webcam (recommended) • A stable and high-speed internet connection

Learn to manage residential tenancies through a study of landlord-tenant law, proper record keeping, and practical guidelines for dealing with tenants. The course examines screening steps, tenancy applications, tenancy contracts, handling evictions, dispute resolution, landlord/tenant rights, the Residential Tenancy Act, and arbitration hearings at the Residential Tenancy Branch. Condominium law is also covered. Fee includes cost of Residential Tenancy Act and Residential Tenancy Regulation.

An introduction to the physical maintenance of apartment buildings and other multi-unit residential properties. Review the primary maintenance responsibilities of residential building managers. Topics include maintenance planning and cost control, preventative maintenance, building inspections, supervising on-site trades work, basic appliance repair, fire safety, security, an introduction to heating and plumbing systems, and a field trip for the building inspection session.

Designed for building supervisors, staff, contract cleaners, and others responsible for general cleaning and floor maintenance. Examine types of soils, cleaners, cleaning chemicals, germicides and disinfectants, washroom and window cleaning, sweeping methods and equipment, floor machines, and servicing specialty areas (not hands-on with power equipment). Safety/liability issues and WHMIS regulations are covered.

This course is intended for building supervisors, service staff and others who wish to advance their career in this industry. Topics include, budget preparation and controls, estimates and costing, purchasing and care of equipment and chemicals, and inventory control. Students will learn about teamwork and leadership skills, scheduling, and motivating and supervising a diverse staff.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the need for cleaning and disinfection of surfaces has surged. Building Service Workers (BSWs) are among the workers protecting public health and safety in various establishments, including schools, grocery stores, malls, office buildings, and medical centres. BSWs support the cleaning and maintenance of buildings and facilities. This comprehensive training provides you with skills, knowledge, and practical experience to enter the building service worker industry. Included in the course is a 1 week practicum where you will learn through hands-on practice in a real environment. You will learn, from experienced industry professionals, about essential elements of custodial service including: sanitation and cleaning, Health Care Cleaning operations (NEW), cleaning equipment, commercial cleaning, cleaning of carpets, floors, windows, washrooms, floor finishing, and fire prevention. In addition, you will learn valuable self-employment skills (operating your own business). You will also gain certification in the new WHMIS 2015 workshop. In relation to the ongoing COVID-19 crisis, focus will be on the process of cleaning with the purpose of disinfection. In your work as a professional cleaner, you will benefit from learning about the proper use of cleaning products and disinfectants to keep yourself and others safe from microorganisms that cause various illnesses. You will also learn about the basics of personal protective equipment (PPE), different types of cleaning equipment and disinfectants, and steps for proper cleaning. For online classes, please be prepared to attend your classes with the following: • A stable and high-speed internet connection • A computer with a microphone and webcam (ideal) for participation Web-conferencing technology, such as Zoom, will be used for online learning. Zoom can also work on an iPhone or Android device (tablet or phone), however, it is highly recommended to use a computer (desktop or laptop) for optimal learning experience. Optional courses: Students who wish to expand their skill set further can take the optional Pool Operator Level 1 (REAL 1140) course.

This course provides students with the necessary training to become a pool operator. Topics include pool chemistry, pathogens, water testing, circulation, filtration, disinfection, chemical handing, pool regulations and worker safety. This course meets the requirements under the Health Act for appropriate pool operator training. In order to successfully complete this course, students must have minimum 80% classroom attendance and pass (with a minimum grade of 60%) on the BC Recreation and Parks Association exam.